PCR detection of viral DNA in serum as an ancillary analysis for the diagnosis of acute mononucleosis-like syndrome due to human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) in immunocompetent patients

BackgroundSerologic tests are occasionally inconclusive for the diagnosis of mononucleosis-like syndrome due to human cytomegalovirus (HCMV).ObjectivesTo determine the value of viral DNA detection in serum by PCR as an ancillary test for the diagnosis of HCMV mononucleosis.Study designSera from 34 previously healthy individuals with HCMV mononucleosis, obtained within 1 month after the onset of symptoms, were assayed for viral DNA by three commercial PCRs (QCA gB, QCA MIE and Amplicor CMV Monitor). Sera from 30 patients with evidence of past HCMV infection served as controls.ResultsViral DNA was detected in 20% of the samples from patients with HCMV mononucleosis by both QCA procedures, but in none of the controls. All samples tested negative by the Amplicor CMV Monitor.ConclusionAnalysis of sera for the presence of HCMV DNA is of limited value for the diagnosis of HCMV mononucleosis.