Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Lassa fever other diagnostic studies
Introduction
Overview
Overview
Other diagnostic tests to confirm the diagnosis of lassa fever include reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and immunohistochemistry using either skin, tissue or liver tissue.
Other Diagnostic Studies
Other Diagnostic Studies
Listed below are some of the diagnostic test used to confirm Lassa fever.[1]
| Diagnostic Test | Samples required | Preparation & Storage | Detects |
| Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) | Serum or plasma or tissues (fresh frozen) | Freeze or refrigerate | Detects DNA, RNA (genetic material) from virus. |
| Immunohistochemistry | Liver biopsy from fatal cases | Fix in formalin and store or transport in room temperature | Detects viral antigen in cells. |
| Immunohistochemistry | Tissue biopsy from fatal cases | Fix in formalin and store or transport in room temperature | Detects viral antigen in cells |
| Immunohistochemistry | Skin biopsy from fatal cases | Fix in formalin and store or transport in room temperature | Detects viral antigen in cells |
Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
References
References
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Ammu Susheela, M.D. [2]