Abstract
This study describes the benefits of using reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for the rapid detection and typing of dengue virus in clinical samples. Twenty-seven serum specimens from patients with dengue fever and dengue hemorrhagic fever in Colombia, Nicaragua, and Panama were directly subjected to RT-PCR for the detection of dengue virus. The resulting double-stranded DNA product was typed by a second round of PCR amplification (nested PCR) with type-specific primers, viral culture/indirect immunofluorescence (IIF), and enzyme-linked electroimmunoassay for IgM anti-dengue antibodies. The amplified virus genome was detected and typed within 8 hours. Nested RT-PCR, using viral culture and IIF as the gold standard, showed 100% sensitivity; 78% specificity; 69% positive predictive value, and 100% negative predictive value. It is noteworthy that two of the specimens whose results were positive with nested RT-PCR and negative with viral culture showed specific IgM antibodies. The results of the RT-PCR were in close agreement with those obtained through viral culture. This suggests PCR can greatly facilitate the rapid and early diagnosis of dengue infection.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
More From: Revista panamericana de salud publica = Pan American journal of public health
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.