QuickVue RSV test
The QuickVue RSV test is a dipstick immunoassay which allows for the rapid,qualitative detection of
respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) antigen (viral fusion protein) directly from nasopharyngeal swab or nasopharyngeal
aspirate specimens for symptomatic pediatric patients (eighteen years of age and younger). A single sample can be used to run both the QuickVue RSV test and QuickVue brand Influenza tests.
| Feature |
Benefit |
| Dipstick Test Format |
Easy to use. Approximately 30 seconds hands-on time. |
Two-color Result |
Easy to read and interpret results. |
15 Minutes to Result |
Allows prompt diagnosis and appropriate patient management while patient is still in office or hospital. |
3 Step Procedure: |
Few procedural steps. Only one reagent.
Approximately 30 seconds hands-on time. |
Quick Reference Instructions |
Simple test procedure and interpretation of results. |
Room Temperature Storage: |
No reagent warm-up Use as needed without waiting. Does not take up refrigerator space. Tests can be run when needed. |
Built-in Internal Control: |
Provides verification of test strip functional integrity, which increases confidence in results. |
Kit Includes External Controls: |
Facilitates internal laboratory quality control. no additional ordering of controls necessary. |
Self-contained Kit Design: |
All components needed to perform 20 tests are contained in the kit, including nasopharyngeal swabs. |
Technical Support: |
Professional staff available for assistance |
Reimbursement Code/Amount: 87807QW, $17.52
Quantity: 20 Tests
FDA 510K, CLIA Waived
About RSV
From the physician's office to the ER to the NICU, diagnosing and managing respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
is serious business. In the United States, RSV is estimated to be responsible for 73,400 to 126,300 hospitalizations
annually for bronchiolitis and pneumonia alone among children younger than one year.1 In children hospitalized
with RSV infection, it is believed to be the most common viral cause of death in children younger than five years,
particularly in children younger than one year.2 It is also the major viral cause of nosocomial illness in children
already hospitalized for other reasons.3 Half of all infants become infected during their first year of life, while
virtually all have been infected by the age of two.4
Due to the potentially serious complications that may result from RSV, prompt detection and management are
critical. Accordingly, healthcare professionals including physicians, caregivers, and hospital laboratories recognize
the benefits of utilizing rapid RSV tests to aid clinical diagnosis and manage patient care.
What symptoms are generally associated with RSV?
RSV is a very common virus that often resembles the common cold with mild symptoms such as a runny nose,
coughing and low-grade fever. However, symptoms indicative of more severe RSV infections may include
difficult or rapid breathing, wheezing, irritability and restlessness, and poor appetite.5
Who is at risk for RSV?
Nearly half of all infants become infected during their first year of life, and virtually all children have been
infected by the age of two.6 However, those at greatest risk of severe RSV infections include7:
- Infants born prematurely
- Term infants younger than 6 weeks old
- Children with medical conditions such as:
- Chronic lung disease
- Serious heart conditions
- Problems with their immune system
RSV Seasonality
RSV infections can occur any time of year, though RSV season typically begins in the Fall and runs through
Spring.8
How long does an RSV infection last?
The RSV infection average incubation period ranges frm 2-8 days; 4-6 days is most common,9 while most
children recover from illness in about 8-15 days.10
How is an RSV infection diagnosed?
To help manage patient care, the QuickVue RSV test is a useful tool to aid in diagnosing RSV, with results in
15 minutes. It is recommended that negative test results be confirmed by cell culture. Negative results do not
preclude RSV infection and it is recommended that they not be used as the sole basis for treatment or other
management decisions.
How is an RSV infection managed?
Management of an RSV infection is symptomatic: assure proper hydration, monitor and treat fever, and manage
nasal congestion conservatively. When an RSV infection becomes more serious and progresses to bronchiolitis,
patient management goals are to relieve respiratory distress, alleviate airway obstruction and improve oxygen levels.
It is important to normalize body temperature and maintain proper hydration.11
How is RSV spread?
RSV is easily spread from contact with respiratory secretions from infected individuals or contaminated surfaces
and objects.12
How can the spread of RSV be controlled?13
- Wash your hands before touching your baby, as well as before handling or eating food.
- Keep your baby away from crowds, as well as individuals with colds.
- Do not share personal items such as pacifiers, utensils, toothbrushes, and bed and bath linens.
Also be sure to clean toys and play areas frequently.
- Don't smoke or allow others to smoke around your baby.
1 Collins P., Chanock R., Murphy B. Fields Virology. Fourth Edition. Volume 1. Chapter 45 -
Respiratory Syncytial Virus. Lippincot Williams and Wilkins. (2001)
2 Thompson, W. et al. Mortality Associated With the Influenza and Respiratory Syncytial
Virus in the United States. JAMA, January 8, 2003 - Vol 289, No. 2.
3 Macartney K. et al. Nosocomial Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections: The Cost-Effectiveness
and Cost-Benefit of Infection Control. Pediatrics Vol. 106 No. 3 Sept. 2000, pp 520-526.
4, 6 Child and Youth Health; Respiratory Syncy Virus (RSV);
http://www.cyh.com/HealthTopics/HealthTopicDetails.aspx?p=114&np=303&id=1997
5, 7 Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). American Academy of Pediatrics, et al.,
http://www.aap.org/pubed/ZZZSO05MASD.htm?&sub_cat=107 (accessed 1/16/2006)
8, 13 RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) - A guide for parents, Channing L. Bete Co.,
SSP01-051/63571, 2000, pp. 2. South Deerfield, MA, 61005D-08-01.
9 Respiratory Syncytial Virus - Clinical Manifestations. Red Book: 2003 Report of the
Committee on Infectious Diseases, 26th ed., 2003, pp. 523. Elk Grove Village: American
Academy of Pediatrics.
10, 12 Respiratory Syncytial Virus - Clinical features. CDC January 21, 2005, et. al.
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvrd/revb/respiratory/rsvfeat.htm (accessed 1/16/06)
11 Polak, Mark, M.D. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV): Overview, Treatment, and
Prevention Strategies, Posted 4/13/2004, W.B. Saunders;
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/472399_print (accessed 5/20/06)
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