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Diagnosis of influenza
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
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Clinically, the flu is diagnosed if patients have a typical form of the disease in an epidemic rise in morbidity.
For laboratory confirmation, an express method is used, which is based on the detection of viral antigens in the epithelium of the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract by means of the RIF. The result can be obtained in 3 hours.
Serological diagnosis of influenza is based on the detection of an increase in antibody titer 4 times or more in paired sera taken at the onset of the disease and in the period of convalescence. In practical work, the most widely used DSC and RTGA. In recent years, ELISA is frequently used with separate determination of specific IgM and IgG antibodies.
Molecular genetic methods (usually PCR) are the most sensitive and specific.
Virological studies with the isolation and identification of the virus are conducted in the event of a new epidemic or an outbreak of influenza. Chicken embryos, as well as cultures of human embryonic cells (kidneys and lungs) are used to isolate the virus.
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