Use of a single-tube nested real-time PCR assay to facilitate the early diagnosis of acute Q fever

Jpn J Infect Dis. 2011;64(2):161-2.

Abstract

We have developed a single-tube nested real-time PCR (STN-RT PCR) assay using the repetitive, transposon-like element IS1111 as the DNA target to facilitate early diagnosis of acute Q fever. The use of our proposed diagnostic procedures, including IgM detection by serology and the STN-RT PCR assay, significantly increased the diagnostic sensitivity for Q fever to 78%, compared to 29% when serology alone was used for subjects providing mainly acute-phase blood samples.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Bacteriological Techniques / methods*
  • DNA Transposable Elements
  • DNA, Bacterial / genetics
  • Early Diagnosis
  • Humans
  • Molecular Diagnostic Techniques / methods*
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction / methods*
  • Q Fever / diagnosis
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Serologic Tests / methods

Substances

  • DNA Transposable Elements
  • DNA, Bacterial