Xtag Respiratory Viral Panel, Xtag Data Analysis Software (Tdas RVP-1)

The xTAG* Respiratory Viral Panel (RVP) is a qualitative nucleic acid multiplex test intended for the simultaneous detection and identification of multiple respiratory virus nucleic acids in nasopharyngeal swabs from individuals suspected of respiratory tract infections. The following virus types and subtypes are identified using RVP: Influenza A, Influenza A subtype Hi, Influenza A subtype H3, Influenza B, Respiratory Syncytial Virus subtype A, Respiratory Syncytial Virus subtype B, Parainfluenza 1, Parainfluenza 2, and Parainfluenza 3 virus, Human Metapneumovirus, Rhinovirus, and Adenovirus. The detection and identification of specific viral nucleic acids from individuals exhibiting signs and symptoms of respiratory infection aids in the diagnosis of respiratory viral infection if used in conjunction with other clinical and laboratory findings. It is recommended that specimens found to be negative for Influenza B, Respiratory Syncytial Virus subtype A and B, Parainfluenza 1, Parainfluenza 2, Parainfluenza 3 and Adenovirus, after examination using RVP be confirmed by cell culture. Negative results do not preclude respiratory virus infection and should not be used as the sole basis for diagnosis, treatment or other management decisions.

Positive results do not rule out bacterial infection, or co-infection with other viruses. The agent detected may not be the definite cause of disease. The use of additional laboratory testing (e.g. bacterial culture, immunofluorescence, radiography) and clinical presentation must be taken into consideration in order to obtain the final diagnosis of respiratory viral infection.

Due to seasonal prevalence, performance characteristics for Influenza A/Hi were established primarily with retrospective specimens.

The RVP assay cannot adequately detect Adenovirus species C,or serotypes 7a and 41. The RVP primers for detection of rhinovirus cross-react with enterovirus. A rhinovirus reactive result should be confirmed by an alternate method (e.g. cell culture).

Performance characteristics for Influenza A Virus were established when Influenza A/H3 and A/Hi were the predominant Influenza A viruses in circulation. When other Influenza A viruses are emerging, performance characteristics may vary. If infections with a novel Influenza Avirus is suspected based on current clinical and epidemiological screening criteria recommended by public health authorities, specimens should be collected with appropriate infection control precautions for novel virulent Influenza viruses and sent to a state or local health department for testing. Viral culture should not be attempted in these cases unless a BSL 3+ facility is available to receive and culture specimens.