[Polymerase chain reaction in diagnosing cytomegalovirus infection in HIV-infected patients]

The authors propose a simple and standard approach to semi-quantitative detection of cytomegalovirus (CMV) DNA in blood leukocytes by the polymerase chain reaction. The method was used in early diagnosis and treatment of manifest CMV infection in HIV-infected patients. High titers of CMV DNA correlated with the manifestation of CMV disease and progressive loss of host immune function. Clinical significance of difference in DNA titers was revealed. The proposed method can be used to assess the efficacy of specific anti-CMV therapy.