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Comparative Evaluation of Select Serological Assays for Zika Virus Using Blinded Reference Panels
Devy M Emperador1, Mars Stone2,3, Eduard Grebe2,3
1Pandemic Threats Programme, Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics (FIND), 1218 Geneva, Switzerland.
Viruses
|July 27, 2024
Summary
Accurate Zika virus (ZIKV) antibody testing is challenging due to cross-reactivity with other flaviviruses. Comparative studies reveal significant variability in commercial serological assays, impacting diagnosis and surveillance efforts.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- The 2015 Zika virus (ZIKV) epidemic highlighted the need for reliable diagnostic tools.
- Accurate diagnosis of ZIKV infection, especially in pregnant women, remains a challenge.
- Cross-reactivity with other flaviviruses (e.g., dengue virus, West Nile virus) complicates serological testing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of commercially available ZIKV antibody assays.
- To compare the performance of different ZIKV IgM and IgG detection kits.
- To inform optimal diagnostic strategies and disease surveillance for ZIKV.
Main Methods:
- Utilized panels of human serum samples with known ZIKV and other arbovirus exposure.
- Assessed multiple ZIKV antibody tests (IgM and IgG) from various manufacturers.
- Determined sensitivity and specificity for each assay.
Main Results:
- Performance of ZIKV IgM assays was highly variable; only one demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity.
- ZIKV IgG tests generally showed good sensitivity, but specificity varied significantly.
- Some assays produced false-positive results in individuals infected with other flaviviruses.
Conclusions:
- Accurate ZIKV antibody testing is difficult, particularly in flavivirus-endemic regions.
- Commercial assay performance is inconsistent, necessitating careful selection and validation.
- Availability of standardized reference samples is crucial for evaluating ZIKV diagnostic tests.
