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Detection of Human-Pathogenic Poxviruses

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Diagnostic Virology Protocols

Part of the book series: Methods in Molecular Biology ((MIMB,volume 665))

Abstract

With the eradication of smallpox about 30 years ago, the identification and differentiation of other poxviruses with varying pathogenicity in humans present a challenge for diagnostic facilities. While a clinical differentiation can be demanding, electron microscopy is the fastest approach to identify poxviruses. Molecular techniques, based on specific genomic sequences, are routinely applied to identify poxvirus species and distinguish between individual virus variants. In this chapter, we present detailed protocols for both techniques and discuss questions relevant to fast and reliable diagnostics of poxviruses.

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Acknowledgement

The authors are grateful to Ursula Erikli for critically reading the manuscript.

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  1. Centre for Biological Safety 1, German Consultant Laboratory for Poxviruses, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany

    Andreas Kurth & Andreas Nitsche

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  1. Andreas Kurth
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  1. , Research & Development Division, Health Protection Agency, High Holborn 330, London, WC1V 7BA, United Kingdom

    John R. Stephenson

  2. Northwick Park Hospital, Research and Development, North West London Hospitals NHS Trust, Watford Road, Harrow, HA13UJ, Middlesex, United Kingdom

    Alan Warnes

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Kurth, A., Nitsche, A. (2010). Detection of Human-Pathogenic Poxviruses. In: Stephenson, J., Warnes, A. (eds) Diagnostic Virology Protocols. Methods in Molecular Biology, vol 665. Humana Press, Totowa, NJ. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-60761-817-1_15

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