Polymerase chain reaction analysis of aqueous and vitreous specimens in the diagnosis of posterior segment infectious uveitis.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

To assess polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis of intraocular fluid as a test for infectious uveitis of the posterior segment in a representative patient population.

Design

Retrospective, interventional case series.

Methods

One hundred and thirty-three patients with possible infectious chorioretinitis underwent PCR testing of aqueous or vitreous in a university setting. Baseline characteristics predictive of test positivity were identified. Positive and negative predictive values were calculated.

Results

Four hundred and thirty-three PCR tests of 105 aqueous and 38 vitreous specimens (mean, 3.3 tests per patient) identified 77 of the 95 patients with a final clinical diagnosis of infectious uveitis (81%). Herpes simplex virus, varicella zoster virus

SUBMITTER: Harper TW 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4142712 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature