Mumps virus infection is normally diagnosed by serologic testing. Identification of mumps-specific IgM antibodies in serum or plasma by enzyme immunoassay analysis (EIA) in samples taken during the acute phase is the most-widely used serologic test for the diagnosis of mumps, due to its simplicity, high sensitivity and specificity. When the infection cannot be confirmed by serologic tests, the ...

BACKGROUND Syphilis and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) frequently coexist in patients, but the effects of immunosuppression on the course of syphilis are unknown. Our goal was to determine whether the degree of HIV-mediated immunosuppression and the use of highly active antiretroviral therapy impact syphilis serologic responses. METHODS We assessed all cases of syphilis with positive sero...

We summarize the first reported case of acquired lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) infection in Michigan to be investigated by public health authorities and provide evidence of the focal nature of LCMV infection in domestic rodents. Results of serologic and virologic testing in rodents contrasted, and negative serologic test results should be confirmed by tissue testing.

To compare coccidioidomycosis case rates among groups of young adults in a disease-endemic region, we reviewed medical charts for serologic testing and coding. Case rates were higher for scholarship athletes than for other students and paralleled 5x more serologic testing. Our findings underscore the need to routinely test patients for coccidioidomycosis.

We surveyed national Helicobacter pylori diagnostic testing practices and diagnoses using commercial and Medicare medical claims data from Optum Labs (Cambridge, MA). Serologic testing for antibodies to H. pylori remains the most commonly ordered diagnostic test despite recent expert recommendations. Changes in reimbursement for serologic testing will likely drive future provider ordering pract...