PCR detection of respiratory viruses (Antwerp, Sciensano and Leuven) including MERS CoV (Leuven and Sciensano)

Description of test

• Adenovirus: viral cell culture and PCR
• Extraction RNA from matrix. Conversion RNA to cDNA. Amplification cDNA by real-time PCR.
• Detection of RSV, human metapneumovirus, parainfluenza virus, rhinovirus/enterovirus, paraechovirus, bocavirus, adenovirus, OC43, NL63, 229E

Purpose of the test

• Identification pathogenic organism
• Confirmation of diagnosis
• Surveillance

Criteria for detection of respiratory viruses

• Outbreaks: several linked patients with very severe lower respiratory tract infection in which the requesting laboratory does not find a pathogen with its own tests.
• Conjunctivitis (adenovirus)
• Suitable samples for PCR diagnosis of respiratory viruses
• Respiratory sample (preferably nasopharyngeal aspirate, nasopharyngeal swab), biopsy (not fixed), conjunctival swab (adenovirus detection only)
• Swabs: cotton, Dacron or preferably Flocked swab in universal or virus transport medium
• Minimum sample volume: 0.5 ml

Transport instructions

See suitable samples for PCR detection M. pneumoniae and C. pneumoniae.

Unacceptable requests

• Insufficient volume
• Sample not suitable for analysis
• Incorrect transport/storage
• Incomplete application form
• Application does not meet the criteria

Turn around time and analysis frequency

Analysis frequency:

• UZA: 3x per week
• UZ Leuven: Every working day for RSV/parainfluenzavirus/human metapneumovirus.
• Sciensano: Every working day 

Reporting of test results

Mail or fax at the applicant’s discretion.