Polymerase chain reaction for rapid detection of human cytomegalovirus. Clinical use in the ICU patient.

Abstract

For rapid and accurate diagnosis of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infections, we applied HCMV-DNA amplification by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method and compared the sensitivity of this method with those of conventional serological and histological examinations in 20ICU patients. We used blood, urine, and other infected tissues as specimens. Using tissue culture and tissue biopsy as gold standard tests, a nensitivity of 100% , a specificity of 82.4%, a positive predictive value of 50%, and a negative predictive value of 100% were observed with the PCR method. In contrast to the PCR method, conventional serological tests revealed low sensitivity and specificity. An average of more than 18 days was required for conventional serological tests to be reported, but PCR method results were available within 8 days. In conclusion, the PCR method is a useful and rapid method for the detection of HCMV in ICU patients.