Comparison of three rapid diagnostic techniques for detection of respiratory syncytial virus from nasal wash specimens

We report results of three rapid tests for respiratory syncytial virus antigen detection. An immunofluorescence assay using commercial antibody and two commercial enzyme immunoassays (Ortho Diagnostics, Inc., Raritan, N.J., and Abbott Laboratories, North Chicago, Ill.) were applied to 199 nasal wash specimens. The Abbott enzyme immunoassay was the most sensitive technique, with a sensitivity of 93.8%. The specificities of the three techniques were comparable and greater than 95%. The availability of reliable rapid diagnostic techniques will allow for better care of infants with severe respiratory syncytial virus infection.