Detection of cytomegalovirus by a rapid culture system: a comparison of monoclonal antibodies in a clinical setting.
A monoclonal antibody cocktail, directed against immediate early antigens of cytomegalovirus, was assessed in a rapid culture system for detection of CMV (DEAFF) in clinical samples. The antibody cocktail was shown to be equivalent in sensitivity and specificity to our currently used monoclonal antibody. A comparison of DEAFF (using either monoclonal preparation) and conventional cell culture shows that DEAFF detects a smaller proportion of CMV positive samples from those receiving antiviral chemotherapy. The reasons for the discrepancies observed between these techniques are discussed.
Pillay
D
D
Division of Communicable Diseases, Royal Free Hospital and School of Medicine, London, UK.
Charman
H
H
Lok
J
J
Griffiths
P D
PD
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D000914:Antibodies, Viral; D000998:Antiviral Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003587:Cytomegalovirus / Q000254:growth & development / Q000276:immunology / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D003586:Cytomegalovirus Infections / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000382:microbiology*; D006801:Humans; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D000914:Antibodies, Viral; D000998:Antiviral Agents