Invader plus method detects herpes simplex virus in cerebrospinal fluid and simultaneously differentiates types 1 and
Hatim T Allawi1, Haijing Li, Tamara Sander
1Third Wave Technologies, Inc., 502 South Rosa Rd., Madison, WI 53719, USA. hallawi@twt.com
Journal of Clinical Microbiology
|September 7, 2006
Summary
A new Invader Plus method accurately detects herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This validated assay offers high sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing viral meningitis.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Diagnostics
- Virology
- Clinical Chemistry
Background:
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) types 1 and 2 are common causes of viral meningitis.
- Accurate and sensitive detection of HSV in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a novel Invader Plus method for the qualitative detection of HSV-1 and HSV-2 in CSF.
- To evaluate the analytical and clinical performance of the Invader Plus assay.
Main Methods:
- Development of a prototype Invader Plus assay combining PCR and Invader techniques.
- Single, closed-tube, continuous-reaction format for efficient detection.
- Validation using clinical CSF specimens and comparison against a PCR colorimetric microtiter plate system.
Main Results:
- The Invader Plus method demonstrated an analytical sensitivity of approximately 10 copies per reaction.
- Clinical sensitivity was 100.0% and clinical specificity was 98.6%.
- The assay showed excellent performance characteristics compared to an established PCR method.
Conclusions:
- The Invader Plus method is a highly sensitive and specific tool for the qualitative detection of HSV-1 and HSV-2 in CSF.
- This assay offers a reliable diagnostic option for suspected cases of HSV meningitis.
- The closed-tube, continuous-reaction format enhances its utility in clinical laboratories.
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