Avian influenza other diagnostic studies
Avian influenza Microchapters |
Diagnosis |
---|
Treatment |
Case Studies |
Avian influenza other diagnostic studies On the Web |
American Roentgen Ray Society Images of Avian influenza other diagnostic studies |
Risk calculators and risk factors for Avian influenza other diagnostic studies |
For more information about seasonal human influenza virus that is not associated with animal exposure, see Influenza
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Other diagnostic test for influenza include molecular assays, such as RT-PCR. New technologies being pursued include those that examine influenza viruses at the molecular level. By examining the genetic makeup of influenza viruses, such tests could identify both the virus type and subtype simultaneously.
Other Diagnostic Studies
Molecular Assays Adapted from CDC [1]
- Tests for influenza include:
- Molecular assays
- Rapid influenza diagnostic tests
- Viral culture
- Serology
- Molecular assays for influenza are increasingly being used in clinical settings.
- Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) and other molecular assays can identify the presence of influenza viral RNA in respiratory specimens.
- RT-PCR is particularly useful to identify influenza virus infection as a cause of respiratory outbreaks in institutions, such as nursing homes, chronic care facilities, and hospitals.
- Some molecular assays are able to detect and discriminate between infections with influenza A and B viruses; other tests can identify specific influenza A virus subtypes.
- These assays can yield results in 3-8 hours.
- Notably, the detection of influenza viral RNA by these assays does not always indicate detection of viable virus or on-going influenza viral replication.
- It is important to note that not all assays have been cleared by the FDA for diagnostic use.
Advantages | Disadvantages |
---|---|
|
|