Preferred method for diagnosis of CMV infection

Preferred method for diagnosis of CMV infection

• A. Serology
• B. Culture
• C. PCR
• D. Histopathology

Answer: (C)

Detecting CMV infection hinges on identifying the virus itself rather than the body’s response. The preferred method is PCR detection of CMV DNA because it is highly sensitive and fast, and it can quantify viral load to guide therapy. PCR can be done on blood or plasma, making it especially useful for immunocompromised patients and transplant recipients where timely detection influences treatment decisions. Serology, by contrast, mainly reflects prior exposure or immune status and does not reliably distinguish active infection from latent infection or reactivation, so it isn’t the best choice for diagnosing active disease. Culture can be slow and less practical for rapid diagnosis, while histopathology requires tissue biopsy and is invasive, serving more as an adjunct when tissue is already being obtained. Overall, PCR-based CMV DNA testing provides the most accurate, timely diagnosis of active CMV infection and supports ongoing monitoring of antiviral response.

Detecting CMV infection hinges on identifying the virus itself rather than the body’s response. The preferred method is PCR detection of CMV DNA because it is highly sensitive and fast, and it can quantify viral load to guide therapy. PCR can be done on blood or plasma, making it especially useful for immunocompromised patients and transplant recipients where timely detection influences treatment decisions. Serology, by contrast, mainly reflects prior exposure or immune status and does not reliably distinguish active infection from latent infection or reactivation, so it isn’t the best choice for diagnosing active disease. Culture can be slow and less practical for rapid diagnosis, while histopathology requires tissue biopsy and is invasive, serving more as an adjunct when tissue is already being obtained. Overall, PCR-based CMV DNA testing provides the most accurate, timely diagnosis of active CMV infection and supports ongoing monitoring of antiviral response.