Evaluation of two current generation enzyme immunoassays and an improved isolation-based assay for the rapid detection and isolation of rotavirus from stool.

Background: Rapid and accurate rotavirus testing is important in decisions involving patient care and management. Quality assurance testing needs to be periodically performed, especially among widely used assays having a direct impact on patient care.

Objectives: To evaluate the current generation Kallestad Pathfinder Direct antigen Detection system (PTH), and the widely used Rotaclone(R) Rotavirus EIA Diagnostic Kit (RTC), in comparison with an improved cell culture amplification-antigen detection (CCA-Ag) isolation-based assay.