Specimen Collection for Electron Microscopy
Author Information
Author(s): Hans R. Gelderblom, Paul R. Hazelton
Primary Institution: Konsilarlaboratorium fur die Elektronenmikroskopische Erregerdiagnostik in the Robert Koch Institut, Berlin, Germany; and Electron Microscopy Unit, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Manitoba, Canada
Hypothesis
Does the method of specimen collection affect the success rate of viral identification in electron microscopy diagnostics?
Conclusion
Directly touching the EM sample grid to the lesion improves the yield of viral particles, making it easier to identify viral agents.
Supporting Evidence
- Directly touching the EM sample grid to the lesion increases the yield of viral particles.
- Viral agents continue to be identified in over 60% of lesions in submitted aspirates.
- Success rates for identifying herpesvirus and orthopoxvirus by drop method preparation are between 62% to 80% annually.
Takeaway
When doctors collect samples from blisters to check for viruses, using a special grid to touch the blister works better than using a needle.
Methodology
Comparison of specimen collection methods for viral diagnostics using electron microscopy.
Limitations
Success rates for swab specimens have declined to less than 10%, and concentration methods are not always available.
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