Diagnosis of monkeypox virus - An overview

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Epidemiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Monkeypox is an emerging zoonotic disease caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV), a DNA virus.
• Transmission occurs through close contact with infected animals, humans, or contaminated objects.
• Clinical presentation includes fever, headache, fatigue, myalgia, swollen lymph nodes, and skin lesions, but can be difficult to distinguish from other rash-causing conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the diagnostic approaches for monkeypox infection.
• To emphasize the importance of laboratory confirmation for suspected cases.
• To highlight the need for enhanced global laboratory networks for emerging zoonoses.

Main Methods:

• Collection of suitable samples, including surface lesions, exudates, swabs, and crusts.
• Laboratory confirmation using nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT), such as real-time or conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
• Confirmation involves considering clinical and epidemiological data alongside positive PCR or sequencing results for MPXV.

Main Results:

• Nucleic acid amplification testing, particularly PCR, is the primary method for laboratory confirmation of monkeypox virus (MPXV).
• Positive detection via specific MPXV PCR assays or OPXV PCR followed by MPXV confirmation indicates infection.
• Genetic sequence data (GSD) aids in understanding the origin, epidemic spread, and characteristics of MPXV cases.

Conclusions:

• Accurate laboratory confirmation of monkeypox is essential for diagnosis and disease surveillance.
• Strengthening laboratory capacity and global networks is critical for managing emerging zoonotic diseases like monkeypox.
• Integrated clinical, epidemiological, and laboratory data are vital for confirming MPXV infections.