[Early detection of cytomegaloviruses from pathological matter and feces]

CMV can be isolated within 24 or 48 h post-infection of human diploid fibroblasts cells cultures by detection of immediate early antigen with immunological techniques using E13 monoclonal antibody. Optimal enhancement of CMV detection is obtained by centrifugation at 4,000 g for 45 minutes of specimen inoculum onto cell culture monolayers. Rapid immunodiagnosis can be applied to cells from clinical specimens faster than with culture but it is less sensitive. This rapid diagnosis of CMV infection enables early prescription of appropriate antiviral chemotherapy.