Comparison of a Multiplex Reverse Transcription-PCR-Enzyme Hybridization Assay with Conventional Viral Culture and Immunofluorescence Techniques for the Detection of Seven Viral Respiratory Pathogens

摘要: A multiplex reverse transcription-PCR-enzyme hybridization assay (RT-PCR-EHA; Hexaplex; Prodesse Inc., Waukesha, Wis.) was used for the simultaneous detection of human parainfluenza virus types 1, 2, and 3, influenza B, respiratory syncytial B. One hundred forty-three specimens from 126 patients were analyzed by RT-PCR-EHA, results compared to those obtained conventional viral culture immunofluorescence (IF) methods. RT-PCR-EHA proved be positive 17 143 (11.9%) specimens, whereas 8 (5.6%) samples and/or IF. Eight both methods, while nine IF negative. with discordant then independently tested a different RT-PCR all eight positive. In comparison gave sensitivity specificity 100 93%, respectively. Since able detect more samples, which would otherwise have been missed routine we suggest that this provides highly sensitive specific means diagnostic major viruses.