Direct detection of Leishmania from clinical samples.

The ability to rapidly and accurately diagnose leishmaniasis is a military priority. Testing was conducted to evaluate diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of field-expedient Leishmania genus and visceral Leishmania specific dual-fluorogenic, hydrolysis probe (TaqMan), polymerase chain reaction assays previously established for use in vector surveillance. Blood samples of patients with confirmed visceral leishmaniasis and controls without the disease from Baringo District, Kenya, were tested.

A Field-Expedient Method for Direct Detection of Enterotoxigenic E Coli and Shigella from Stool.

Unlabelled: We describe a field-expedient analytic system that fills a unique and critical public health role and potentially provides a valuable aid in diagnostics. Dual-fluorigenic, hydrolysis probe (TaqMan), PCR assays for detection of causative agents of enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) disease and shigellosis/bacillary dysentery were prepared in a thermal-stable, hydrolytic enzyme resistant format. The assays were packaged as a kit for use with a portable, ruggedized, qRT-PCR thermocycler.

Detection of Dengue Virus in Mosquito Extracts and Human Clinical Samples Using a Field Expedient Molecular Platform.

Dengue fever occurs in localized outbreaks and can significantly erode troop strength and mission readiness. Timely identification of dengue virus (DENV) provides for rapid and appropriate patient management decisions, such as medical evacuation and supportive therapies, as well as help to promote Force Health Protection through vector control and personal protective measures. The "Ruggedized" Advanced Pathogen Identification Device is a field-friendly PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) platform that can be used to facilitate early identification of DENV.

Leveraging arthropod-borne disease surveillance assays for clinical diagnostic use.

Researchers at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research have taken a joint service approach to filling an identified diagnostic capability gap by leveraging a vector surveillance assay. Specifically, the Army took a field-stable real-time polymerase chain reaction assay, developed by the Air Force, for dengue virus surveillance in arthropod vectors and collaborated with Navy researchers for utility in human diagnostics. As current Department of Defense diagnostic PCR assays employ the Joint Biological Agent Identification and Diagnostic System, the dengue assay was tested for use on this platform.

A field-expedient method for detection of leptospirosis causative agents in rodents.

We have developed a thermal-stable, pathogenic Leptospira TaqMan PCR assay intended to support pathogen surveillance in reservoir populations. The assay is packaged specifically for use with a portable, ruggedized, real-time PCR thermocycler. Limit of detection was established at ≤ 100 fg (20 organisms).