Creating a Molecular Atmosphere: Phase 1

Abstract

The first phase of creating the molecular section in Microbiology started in late 2005 and early 2006, when we decided to bring in an analyzer that could perform real-time PCR assays. At that time, we were specifically interested in performing herpes simplex virus (HSV) typing but we wanted an analyzer that could accommodate a growing test menu. We chose the HSV to start because of its value to our pediatric infectious disease physician and its usefulness to other health care professionals. At the time, we performed virus cultures for HSV in-house and we sent out cerebrospinal fluid for HSV typing by polymerase chain reaction (PCR); the turnaround times were 2 to 4 days and 5 to 7 days, respectively. Offering this assay in-house would positively affect patient care by decreasing the turnaround time to 24 to 36 hours. Before creating a molecular section in our department, I had verified a qualitative assay approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA; running samples, performing statistical analysis, and completing a … [↵][1]* To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail: stephanie.e.wallace{at}osfhealthcare.org [1]: #xref-corresp-1-1