Preliminary evaluation of a multiplex reverse transcription-PCR assay combined with a new DNA chip hybridization assay for detecting respiratory syncytial virus

J Clin Microbiol. 2007 Nov;45(11):3811-3. doi: 10.1128/JCM.00345-07. Epub 2007 Sep 19.

Abstract

DNA chips represent a major advance in microbiology laboratories, enabling the detection of a wide range of possible pathogens using a single test. This study compared a multiplex reverse transcription-PCR combined with DNA chip hybridization (ProDect BCS RV chip; bcs Biotech) with the indirect immunofluorescence test commonly used to detect respiratory viruses. A total of 39 respiratory viruses (38 respiratory syncytial viruses [RSVs] and 1 influenza A virus) were detected in samples from 96 patients using the immunofluorescence test, while 36 viruses (34 RSV, 1 influenza A virus, and 1 influenza B virus) were detected by the DNA chip technique. Results showed a good level of agreement between the two tests for RSV detection; the incidence of other viruses was low, since samples were taken from patients with suspected bronchiolitis. DNA chips displayed high sensitivity (94.6%) and specificity (100%).

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Oligonucleotide Array Sequence Analysis / methods*
  • Respiratory Syncytial Viruses / genetics
  • Respiratory Syncytial Viruses / isolation & purification*
  • Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction / methods*
  • Sensitivity and Specificity