Use of rhesus monkey kidney cells for isolation of varicella-zoster virus

The authors examined the performance of rhesus monkey kidney cells and human diploid fibroblasts (MRC-5 cells) in primary isolation of varicella-zoster virus from clinical specimens in a diagnostic virology laboratory. Seventy-two varicella-zoster virus isolates were recovered between 1985 and 1993. Twenty-three isolates (32%) grew only in rhesus monkey kidney cells, whereas four isolates (6%) grew only in human diploid fibroblasts (MRC-5)(P = .0001). The time to first detection of cytopathic effect was shorter in rhesus monkey kidney cells than in fibroblasts. The extent of cytopathic effect was greater in monkey kidney cells. In conclusion, the addition of rhesus monkey kidney cells increases the yield of varicella-zoster virus and decreases the time required to make a definitive diagnosis. The optimal yield of isolates and time to specific diagnosis occurs when both monkey kidney cells and human diploid fibroblasts are inoculated.