Diagnostic Test Detects Human Adenovirus

A molecular test that identifies human adenovirus DNA in nasopharyngeal specimens is now available for use with people who may have respiratory illness.

The assay uses real-time polymerase chain reaction (rt-PCR) to detect qualitatively human adenovirus DNA in swabs taken from the upper part of the pharynx obtained from people exhibiting signs and symptoms of acute respiratory infection, such as pneumonia, croup, or bronchitis.

The assay, Prodesse ProAdeno+, is a multiplex rt-PCR in vitro diagnostic test and is intended for use to aid in the diagnosis of human adenovirus infection. It detects, but does not differentiate among, adenovirus serotypes 1-51. The assay uses the same sample type as Prodesse's other respiratory infectious disease tests, so a single sample can be tested with any combination of these products. All Prodesse assays are simple to use and easily integrate into a laboratory's existing workflow. They have been optimized for use with automated extraction technology to minimize technician hands-on time. Test results can be obtained in as little as three hours, a significant improvement over culture-based methods that can take up to weeks to produce a result.

Prodesse ProAdeno+ is manufactured by Gen-Probe, (San Diego, CA, USA) and has been cleared for marketing by US Food and Drug Administration (FDA, Silver Springs, MD, USA). Eric Tardif, Gen-Probe's senior vice president, said, "The people most susceptible to complications from adenovirus infections include pediatric and elderly populations. Our assay will be an important tool to help physicians diagnose this disease. FDA clearance of our ProAdeno+ assay adds to the Prodesse portfolio of molecular tests for respiratory infectious diseases."

Adenoviruses are transmitted by direct contact, fecal-oral transmission, and occasionally via waterborne transmission. Adenoviruses most commonly cause respiratory disease; however, depending on the serotype, they may also cause other illnesses, such as gastroenteritis, conjunctivitis, bladder infection, and rash illness.

Related Links:
Gen-Probe
FDA