Reference Range:
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Negative
Positive results will be reported as enterovirus RNA detected.
Interpretive: This assay is highly sensitive and specific. The assay detects >10 genomic equivalents of the following viruses:
Coxsackie A – 2, 3, 5, 7, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 22
Coxsackie B – 1, 2, 3, 4, 6
Polio – 1, 2, 3
Echovirus 1 through 9, 11 through 22, 24, 25, 26, 27, 29, 30, 32, 33, 71
A positive result indicates the presence of enterovirus in the specimen.
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Limitations:
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A negative result does not rule out the possibility of enterovirus infection in the CNS. Although the reference range is typically “negative” for this assay, it may detect virus from a variety of specimen types in asymptomatic individuals. This assay should only be used for patients with a clinical history and symptoms consistent with enterovirus infection, and must be interpreted in the context of the clinical picture. This test should not be used to screen asymptomatic patients.
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Additional Information:
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- Proper handling and storage is very important to prevent the destruction of the target RNA by RNases that can be introduced by human hands. Gloving is recommended when handling these specimens. Storage at -70º C also helps stabilize the nucleic acid.
- The enterovirus group includes the polioviruses, echoviruses, coxsackievirus A and coxsackievirus B.
- During the summer and the fall, enteroviruses account for over half of the cases involving infants seen in the emergency room presenting with a fever and no other symptoms. More than 90% of community-acquired cases of viral meningitis are caused by coxsackievirus serotypes B2 and B5, and echoviruses 4,6,9,11,16, and 30.
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