Hybridization assay in CSF targets CMV encephalitis. (cerebrospinal fluid, cytomegalovirus)

In situ hybridization assay in cerebrospinal fluid cells can be a useful tool for the rapid diagnosis of cytomegalovirus (CMV) encephalitis in patients with AIDS, according to a report from Italy's University of Bologna.

CMV encephalitis represents a challenging problem for diagnosis in AIDS. It has no uniform clinical presentation; radiological findings and brain computed tomography are not very specific and sensitive. Laboratory diagnosis generally relies on viral cultures of cerebrospinal fluid or demonstration of intrathecal production of specific immunoglobulins. However, during the early phase of the disease and in immunocompromised patients, these laboratory …