HME (Ehrlichia chaffeensis) PCR Whole Blood (770)

Overview:

The polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based diagnostic assays are highly specific to Ehrlichia chaffeensis (HME) DNAs. The combination of the following three steps imparts a very high specificity and sensitivity to the test:

1. Hybridization/selection
2. Amplification of Ehrlichia-specific DNA
3. Detection of Ehrlichia-specific amplified DNA fragments

Principle: The Ehrlichia chaffeensis (HME) PCR test detects E. chaffeensis ribosomal DNA (rDNA) fragments in patient samples. The rDNA fragments are hybrid-selected by probes, followed by PCR amplification of the selected fragments using specific primers. PCR products are then confirmed with E. chaffeensis-specific probes by southern blot assay.

Stage of Disease: Any Stage of Disease

Test Methodology: PCR