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Nucleocapsid protein as early diagnostic marker for SARS
Xiao-Yan Che1, Wei Hao, Yadi Wang
1Center of Laboratory, Zhujiang Hospital, First Military Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China. linche@pub.guangzhou.gd.cn
Emerging Infectious Diseases
|November 20, 2004
Summary
The nucleocapsid (N) protein of SARS-associated coronavirus shows high accuracy for early severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) diagnosis. Testing serum samples revealed high sensitivity and specificity, making it a valuable diagnostic marker.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Diagnostic Medicine
Background:
- Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is a significant global health concern.
- Early and accurate diagnosis of SARS is crucial for effective patient management and outbreak control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the diagnostic performance of the nucleocapsid (N) protein of SARS-associated coronavirus in patient serum.
- To determine the sensitivity and specificity of N protein detection for early SARS diagnosis.
Main Methods:
- Serum samples from 317 patients with SARS were analyzed.
- Detection of the SARS-associated coronavirus nucleocapsid (N) protein was performed.
Main Results:
- The nucleocapsid (N) protein assay demonstrated high sensitivity: 94% within the first 5 days and 78% between 6-10 days post-onset.
- The assay achieved a high specificity of 99.9%.
Conclusions:
- The nucleocapsid (N) protein is a reliable and sensitive biomarker for the early diagnosis of SARS.
- This finding supports the use of N protein detection as an early diagnostic tool for SARS-associated coronavirus infections.