LightCycler Multiplex PCR for the Laboratory Diagnosis of Common Viral Infections of the Central Nervous System

A conventional multiplex PCR assay that detects herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), HSV-2, varicella-zoster virus, and enteroviruses for the diagnosis of central nervous system infections was modified to be performed using the LightCycler system. The sensitivity of detection of each of the viruses using the LightCycler assay was compared to that of the conventional assay using external quality assessment material. The assays had equivalent sensitivities, but the LightCycler assay was more rapid, reduced the risk of contamination, and used an amplicon detection format that demonstrated greater discrimination than a gel electrophoresis method.