Use of rapid assays in bacteriology and virology.

Rapid assays in bacteriology and virology are designed to provide earlier r esults to physicians and affect patient care. Microbial identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing systems provide results within a few h ours. Their accuracy depends on the strength and the update of the database . Molecular methods allow the identification of unculturable (HCV) or slowl y growing microorganisms (Mycobacterium tuberculosis) within 2-3 days, PCR is commercially available in kits, nevertheless preventing cross-contaminat ion and amplification inhibitors and quality control are of the utmost impo rtance, Rapid antigen defection assays can be performed directly in the cli nical specimen, require less technologist training than culture, and can pr ovide a result in 15-20 min. However when used on the spot they should be p erformed in a proper environment with quality assurance to prevent nosocomi al infections, moreover their suitability and performance must be taken int o consideration. (C) 2000 Editions scientifiques et medicales Elsevier SAS.