Comparative study of serological and molecular techniques for diagnosis of symptomatic congenital human cytomegalovirus infection in paediatrics in a tertiary care hospital.

Shailesh  Kumar; Rinki  Kumari; Kashi Nath  Pandit; Manoj  Kumar; Kumari  Seema

doi:10.51168/sjhrafrica.v7i3.2649

Authors

Shailesh Kumar Senior Resident, Department of Microbiology, Medinirai Medical College and Hospital, Palamu, Jharkhand
Rinki Kumari Senior Resident, Department of Microbiology, Medinirai Medical College and Hospital, Palamu
Kashi Nath Pandit Senior Resident , Department of Microbiology , AIIMS Deoghar, Jharkhand
Manoj Kumar Professor, Department of Microbiology, RIMS , Ranchi ,Jharkhand
Kumari Seema Associate Professor , Department of Microbiology, , RIMS, Ranchi

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v7i3.2649

Keywords:

Human Cytomegalovirus Infection, Polymerase Chain Reaction, Serological Diagnosis, Congenital Infection, Molecular Diagnostics, Early Detection

Abstract

Background:
One of the main causes of neonatal morbidity is congenital human cytomegalovirus infection, which is linked to visual impairment, hearing loss, and neurodevelopmental delay. In order to improve overall clinical results and quality of life, early and precise diagnosis is essential for prompt intervention, the start of antiviral therapy, and the avoidance of long-term sequelae.

Aim:

To compare the diagnostic accuracy of serological and molecular techniques in detecting symptomatic congenital HCMV infection.

Materials and Methods:

A prospective study was conducted on 100 paediatric patients suspected of congenital HCMV infection. Serological tests (IgM, IgG) and molecular methods (PCR) were performed.

Results:

PCR showed higher sensitivity (92%) and specificity (95%) compared to serology. Combined methods demonstrated the highest diagnostic accuracy. Results were statistically significant (p < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Molecular techniques are superior to serological methods for early diagnosis of congenital HCMV infection.

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