Respiratory syncytial virus serology by a simplified enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay

A simplified enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) which utilized commercially available reagents was developed for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)-specific immunoglobulin G. An analysis of the inherent variation of the assay allowed the setting of strict criteria for determining a significant change in RSV antibodies. The ELISA was more sensitive than the standard complement fixation or microneutralization tests in a carefully studied group of 32 RSV-infected adults. The ELISA correlated closely with complement fixation serological testing in 25 patients. The use of purified antigens might allow the development of a more sensitive ELISA.