Adenoviruses can cause life-threatening infections in immunocompromised transplant patients. In this test-specific episode of the "Answers From the Lab" podcast, Joseph Yao, M.D., explains how Mayo Clinic Laboratories' new adenovirus quantification assay (Mayo ID: ADVQU) goes beyond typical qualitative testing to better manage patient care.

"The qualitative detection test can only confirm the presence of the infection. This quantitative test allows care providers and patients to know whether the disease is responding appropriately to antiviral treatment," Dr. Yao says.

ADVQU is a real-time, PCR-based molecular method for quantifying adenoviral DNA in plasma. The assay is approved for adult and pediatric patients. Adenovirus infection causes more aggressive disease in children, as they lack prior exposure to the virus.

Adenovirus testing is recommended for transplant patients when tests for more common viruses, such as Epstein-Barr, are negative. "Transplant patients with suspected second-tier infections should have adenovirus qualitative and quantitative testing," Dr. Yao says. "Monitoring the viral load on a weekly basis can trigger an individual for diagnosis and treatment, and monitor response to therapy."

Listen to learn more about Mayo Clinic Laboratories' quantitative adenovirus assay.

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Testing

ADVQU | Adenovirus DNA Detection and Quantification, Plasma