Abstract

DETECTION OF HERPES SIMPLEX VIRUSES I AND II IN CEREBROSPINAL FLUID SPECIMENS OF IRAQI CHILDREN PRESENTING WITH ASEPTIC MENINGITIS BY USING REAL TIME PCR ASSAY

Awatif H. Issa (Prof.Dr.), Hazim T. Thwiny (Ph.D)* and Eman Sh. Al
Obeidy (consultant. Ph.)

Abstract

The aim of study was to screen for herpes simplex virus type 1and 2 in hospitalized patients, utilizing real time PCR. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples were collected from 68 patients suspected of having aseptic meningitis and/or encephalitis, during the period between April 2013 and June 2014. Viral DNA extraction was done by using the high pure viral nucleic acid kit (Roche, USA) and real time PCR were done by using AnDiaTec® Herpes Simplex Virus 1/2 real time PCR Kit (Germany). Herpes simplex virus 1 were detected in 12 out of 68 (17.6%) CSF samples whereas Herpes simplex virus 2 were detected in 2 out of 68 (2.9%) CSF samples. There was no mixed infections. Herpesviruses were observed during the winter months. The positive samples were within age range 1-4 years. Of the 14 HSV detection, 6/14 (43%) occurred in male patients and 8/14 (57%) occurred in female patients. HSV- 1 and HSV-2 should be screened in cases of suspected aseptic meningitis.

Keywords: Herpes Simplex Virus, Cerebrospinal Fluid, Real Time PCR.