Evaluation of four methods for the diagnosis of respiratory syncytial virus infection in older adults

J Am Geriatr Soc. 1996 Jan;44(1):71-3. doi: 10.1111/j.1532-5415.1996.tb05641.x.

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate four methods of rapid diagnosis of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection in older adults and to compare sensitivities with serologic analysis.

Design: Prospective comparative analysis.

Setting: Two adult daycenters.

Patients: Frail older persons attending the daycenter who developed signs or symptoms of acute respiratory illness between the months of December and February.

Measurements: Viral cultures performed by standard technique and bedside inoculation: antigen detection by indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and Directigen enzyme immunoassay (EIA) on nasal brush samples; serologic analysis of acute and convalescent sera using EIA.

Results: RSV infection was documented by serology in 11 of 54 (20%) subjects during the study period. Bedside viral cultures were the most sensitive assay and were positive in 6/9 infections. Standard viral culture detected 5/11 cases. Both methods of rapid antigen detection were found to be insensitive, with 1/11 detected by IFA and 0/11 detected by EIA.

Conclusion: Rapid antigen tests for the diagnosis of RSV in older persons should be used with caution.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Antigens, Viral / analysis*
  • Antigens, Viral / blood
  • Evaluation Studies as Topic
  • Fluorescent Antibody Technique, Indirect*
  • Frail Elderly
  • Humans
  • Immunoenzyme Techniques*
  • Nose / virology
  • Prospective Studies
  • Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections / diagnosis*
  • Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections / virology
  • Respiratory Syncytial Viruses / immunology*
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Serologic Tests

Substances

  • Antigens, Viral