Clinical Information

This immunoassay is for the detection of IgM and IgG antibodies against Sin Nombre virus (SNV), a New World hantavirus species endemic in the United States. Laboratory testing can aid in the diagnosis of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) in a patient with consistent signs and symptoms of infection.

Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome is caused primarily via inhalation of hantavirus from contaminated rodent urine, droppings, or saliva. Symptoms may include fatigue, fever, muscles aches, with rapid progression to coughing and shortness of breath, which may be severe and life-threatening. Testing may be considered in patients with HPS-compatible symptoms who may have had contact with rodents or infested areas.

In addition to New World hantaviruses, there are Old World hantaviruses (eg, Seoul, Hantaan, Dobrava, and Puumala) endemic to Asia and Europe that cause hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome, a condition not typically seen in the United States. This assay may or may not detect antibodies against these Old World hantaviruses due to variable cross-reactivity with the target antigen. Negative antibody results may also occur early in infection, prior to seroconversion. Antibodies can be detected as early as the prodromal phase of infection (3-7 days). IgM results may be detected for months and IgG for up to several years after acute infection. Cross-reactivity with autoimmune conditions can occur. Therefore, the results of this test should be interpreted in the context of pertinent clinical and physical findings.