87271 Infectious agent antigen detection by immunofluorescent technique; Cytomegalovirus, direct fluorescent antibody (DFA)

Name of the Procedure:

Infectious agent antigen detection by immunofluorescent technique; Cytomegalovirus, direct fluorescent antibody (DFA).

Summary

This procedure involves identifying the presence of Cytomegalovirus (CMV) antigens in a sample using the direct fluorescent antibody (DFA) technique. During the process, specific antibodies that fluoresce under ultraviolet light are used to detect CMV directly in the specimen.

Purpose

This test is primarily used to diagnose active CMV infections. The goal is to quickly and accurately detect the virus to facilitate timely treatment and management.

Indications

• Symptoms of CMV infection, such as fever, fatigue, and swollen glands.
• Immunocompromised patients, including those undergoing chemotherapy or organ transplant recipients.
• Newborns with suspected congenital CMV infection.
• Pregnant women with suspected primary CMV infection.

Preparation

• Generally, no specific preparation such as fasting is required.
• The healthcare provider might ask for a sample of blood, urine, or tissue, depending on the suspected location of the infection.

Procedure Description

1. A sample (blood, urine, tissue, or other body fluids) is collected from the patient.
2. The sample is prepared on a microscope slide.
3. A fluorescently labeled antibody specific to CMV antigens is added to the sample.
4. The sample is incubated to allow the antibody to bind to any present CMV antigens.
5. The preparation is then examined under a fluorescence microscope.
6. Fluorescent areas indicate the presence of CMV antigens, confirming an infection.

Duration

The entire procedure, including sample preparation and analysis, typically takes a few hours to complete.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a laboratory setting, either in a hospital or an outpatient clinic.

Personnel

• Laboratory technicians or technologists.
• Pathologists or specialized medical laboratory scientists.

Risks and Complications

• Minimal risks are associated with the sample collection, such as slight discomfort or bleeding at a blood draw site.
• There are no significant risks from the DFA technique itself.

Benefits

• Provides a rapid diagnosis of CMV infection, which is crucial for initiating appropriate treatment.
• High specificity and sensitivity due to direct detection of viral antigens.

Recovery

• No specific recovery is needed after the sample collection.
• Patients can resume their normal activities immediately.

Alternatives

• CMV PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) testing, which detects viral DNA.
• CMV viral culture, which involves growing the virus from the sample.
• Serological tests to detect CMV-specific antibodies.

Patient Experience

• Sample collection might involve minor discomfort, particularly if a blood draw is required.
• During and after the procedure, the patient should not experience significant pain or discomfort.
• Pain management measures are not typically necessary.