The Impact of Viral Diagnostic Studies on Medical Practice: A Report of Three Years’ Experience with Enterovirus Isolation in a Hospital Laboratory

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Abstract
Pearson, Geraldine, Valdmanis, Aina, Mann, Joseph D., Becker, Maurcie E., and Wilcox, Kenneth R., Jr.: The impact of viral diagnostic studies on medical practice: A report of three years’ experience with enterovirus isolation in a hospital laboratory. Am. J. Clin. Pathol. 58: 349–357, 1972. Over a three-year span, 116 virus isolates were obtained in a general hospital laboratory from cases clinically suspected to be viral infections. The overall incidence of 34% positive cultures increased to 84% during an epidemic of Echovirus 3 meningoencephalitis during August 1970. There was very high correlation (98%) between a cytopathic effect (CPE) observed in the isolates and the presence of an identifiable virus, suggesting that one would be justified in issuing a preliminary report of “tests indicate presence of virus” on the basis of CPE. Such a report could be issued in three to five days in many cases. A viral diagnostic service in a general hospital laboratory has an important impact upon medical practice. When physicians are supplied with exact diagnosis of viral infections their increased diagnostic acumen and knowledge of current viral diseases in the community prevent much unnecessary hospitalization.

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