Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of lower respiratory infections in immunocompetent infants and young children, as well as in immunocompromised adults and children. The rapid identification of RSV in respiratory specimens is critical for the optimal care of patients with cancer and AIDS. A rapid EIA test (TestPack RSV, Abbott Labs, N. Chicago, IL) is available for the detection of RSV antigen in nasopharyngeal aspirates, washes, and swabs. This test is currently being evaluated in parallel with direct fluorescent monoclonal antibody staining and/or shell vial culture, both more time consuming, for the ability to detect RSV not only in nasopharyngeal washes but also in bronchoalveolar lavages and/or induced sputa, two specimen types commonly received in the clinical laboratory as a means to diagnose Pneumocystis carinii infection in these patients.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
Clinical Center (CLC)
Type
Intramural Research (Z01)
Project #
1Z01CL010197-01
Application #
3853133
Study Section
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
Budget End
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
1991
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Clinical Center
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
State
Country
United States
Zip Code