Evaluation of Rapid, Molecular-Based Assays for the Detection of Respiratory Syncytial Virus

Objective: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection causes lower respiratory tract infection primarily in infants and toddlers. RSV reinfection also occurs throughout life and can be a significant cause of pneumonia and mortality in the elderly. Surges in physician offices, emergency department visits, and hospitalization often result from RSV illness. Point-of-care (POC) testing reduces healthcare costs and permits informed decisions on treatment, further testing, or hospitalization to occur during the physician-patient encounter. Optimal POC assays must be sensitive, easy to perform, and provide rapid results. Methods: In this study, 2 POC assays (Alere i; Abbot Rapid Diagnostics and cobas Liat, Roche Molecular, Inc.) and a laboratory-based assay (Solana; Quidel, Inc.) were evaluated using 133 patient nasopharyngeal specimens. Results: Sensitivity/specificity values (%) of 94.7/96.1, 98.2/96.1, and 96.5/94.7 were obtained for the Alere i, Liat, and Solana assays, respectfully. These values approximated those stated in each assay's package insert. Conclusion: Rapid molecular assays for RSV are sensitive and accurate. The choice of assay should reflect each healthcare institution's specific testing needs with respect to the benefits and drawbacks of each product.