COMPARISON OF DIFFERENT METHODS FOR CMV DETECTION

The submandibular glands were investigated in 77 cases of SIDS using h istology, immunohistochemistry (IHC), in situ hybridization (ISH) and PCR to detect cytomegalovirus (CMV) inclusion disease. The aim of the investigation was to establish the detection of CMV by PCR as a model for the detection of other types of virus by PCR, especially for the d etection of viruses which affect the respiratory system of babies. In 14 cases the CMV detection was possible. Typical changes of duct cells associated with CMV infection were observed in 9 by histology and in 4 further cases by IHC. In comparison to these methods, ISH showed a h igher sensitivity but only one more positive case was found. Theoretic ally the PCR method is more sensitive than ISH and more convenient fro m the practical aspect. Detection of CMV by PCR was possible in 10 out of 14 positive cases. All PCR positive cases were cases showing an ac tive disease but not latent infection.