The suitability of PCR (based on the amplification of the 16S rRNA gene) fo
r use as a diagnostic test fur the detection of Campylobacter spp, in human
faecal specimens was assessed. A total of 493 faecal specimens from patien
ts with symptoms of enteritis was tested for the presence of campylobacters
using PCR. Results were compared with those obtained from the analyses of
the same specimens by culture techniques, using chi(2) square with Fisher's
exact test. PCR was found to detect significantly more positive specimens
than culture (chi(2) = 200.086; P < 0.0001). The sensitivity and specificit
y of PCR when with the culture technique were found to be 91 and 97%, respe
ctively. It is proposed that the PCR is a reliable and sensitive method whi
ch ma, be used as a routine diagnostic technique for the detection of campy
lobacters in clinical specimens.