Comparison of four enzyme immunoassays for the detection of cytomegalovirus IgG antibodies.
Four commercial enzyme immunoassays (EIA), namely the Behring Enzygnost EIA (BE-EIA), Abbott IMx, Whittaker CMV STAT Test Kit and Diamedix assay, were evaluated for the detection of CMV IgG. The methods were compared as to sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, global agreement, ease of performance and, for a small number of specimens, reproducibility. Discordant results were resolved by using the Gull CMV indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) method. Our data suggest that all four assays were valuable screening tools for the detection of CMV IgG based on their high sensitivity and high negative predictive value. However, differences were noted in the reproducibility level and in the incidence of false-positive, equivocal and nonspecific results regarding certain tests in particular. In our hands, the Abbott IMx and the BE-EIA ranked high in the performance characteristics for a good screening test, yet the Abbott IMx offers the added advantages of being the easiest to perform and having the most rapid turnaround time.
Pedneault
L
L
Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
Robillard
L
L
Harvey
P
P
Joncas
J
J