Developments in immunologic assays for respiratory viruses

In most hospitals, clinics, and doctor's offices, immunologic assays are the only tests performed on site for the diagnosis of respiratory viruses. More than other methods, immunoassays have been shown to affect patient management and save costs, aiding early administration of antiviral therapy, reduction in unnecessary tests and antibiotics, and earlier discharges. This article discusses the major immunologic methods employed for respiratory virus diagnosis, recent developments in immunoassays and sample collection, and current test algorithms.