Our experience using real-time PCR for the detection of the gene that encodes the superficial lipoprotein LipL32 of the pathogenic leptospires to confirm the acute form of human leptospirosis
Abstract
Aims. To examine biological materials (blood, urine, cerebrospinal fluid) of patients with suspected leptospirosis using real-time PCR for detecting the gene that codes the superficial LipL32 lipoprotein, and to evaluate the contribution of the real-time PCR method for the laboratory diagnosis of the acute form of leptospirosis.
Material and Methods. During the monitored period of April 2010 - December 2011, a total of 340 biological materials samples were examined (177x blood plasma, 88x urine, 68x cerebrospinal fluid, 6x bronchoalveolar lavage and 1x sputum) from 216 patients with suspected leptospirosis using real-time PCR LipL32 gene detection.
Results. From the mentioned 216 patients suspected of leptospirosis, 8 patients were evaluated as being PCR LipL32 positive, from which 14 positive biological materials originated (9 x urine, 4x blood and 1x liquor).
Conclusion. As demonstrated in the study, the real-time PCR method for detecting the gene for the superficial lipoprotein LipL32 is an appropriate, quick and reliable method for the diagnosis of the acute form of leptospirosis.