Validation of the QIAsymphony RGQ system for DNA quantitation of different BK virus genotypes in whole blood samples.

Human polyomavirus BK (BKV) is increasingly recognized as an opportunistic pathogen in transplant recipients. The aim of this work was to evaluate the artus(®) BK Virus QS-RGQ assay on the QIAsymphony RGQ system in whole blood (WB) samples (tests performed in an off-label capacity) according to different BKV genotypes by comparison with a laboratory-developed assay. BKV loads were measured in 111 WB samples and BKV genotype was determined by sequencing the full-length VP1 gene.

Surveillance of herpes simplex virus resistance to antivirals: a 4-year survey.

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) resistance to antivirals constitutes a therapeutic challenge, especially among immunocompromised patients. This observational survey on HSV resistance to antivirals was conducted retrospectively over a 4-year period (2008-2012). A total of 211 HSV-positive clinical samples (94 HSV-1 and 117 HSV-2) recovered from 139 patients (11 immunocompetent patients, 85 immunocompromised patients, and 43 patients with unknown immune status) with suspected HSV drug-resistance were analyzed for acyclovir and foscarnet susceptibility.