A patient comes after a dog bite with hydrophobia, tearing and altered sensorium. You suspect rabies in this patient. Corneal impression has been taken. What test will you do on it for most accurate diagnosis?
(A) Indirect immunofluorescence (B) -PCR for virus (C) Histopathological examination for Negri bodies (D) Antibodies against Rabies virus
(B) Answer- B. -PCR for virusDetection of rabies virus RNA by - PCR is highly sensitive and specific. This technique can detect virus infresh saliva samples, skin, CSF, and brain tissues.Detection of rabies virus RNA by -PCR is highly sensitive and specific. This technique can detect virus in fresh saliva samples, skin, CSF, and brain tissues. In addition, -PCR with genetic sequencing can distinguish among rabies virus variants, permitting identification of the probable source of an infection."-Harrison 19/e p1302.Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction testing can be used to amplify pas of a rabies virus genome from fixed or unfixed brain tissue or saliva. Sequencing of amplified products can allow identification of the infecting virus strain.