Specific RT-PCR procedure for the detection of human parechovirus type 1 genome in clinical samples

Among the new genera of Parechoviruses, human parechovirus type 1, formerly ECHO virus 22, has recently been recognized on the basis of distinctive biological and molecular properties. This human pathogen generally causes mild gastro-enteritis, respiratory infections and is also responsible for central nervous system infections. To ensure reliable detection, these latter infections are diagnosed by using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) procedures. Due to genetic differences, human parechovirus type 1 genome is not detected with an enterovirus specific RT-PCR procedure. Hence, a rapid, specific and sensitive RT-PCR assay was developed that can be used for the detection of human parechovirus type 1 in clinical samples.