Detection of herpes simplex virus by using A549 cells in centrifugation culture with a rapid membrane enzyme immunoassay.

The RAMP herpes simplex virus (HSV) culture confirmation test was compared with immunofluorescence (IF) staining with a specific HSV monoclonal antibody reagent for the detection of HSV in centrifugation culture. The RAMP test detected 47 of 57 IF-positive specimens (sensitivity, 88.6%) and agreed with 217 of 220 IF-negative specimens (specificity, 98.6%). The RAMP test can be performed in less than 15 min and gives an immediate visual result. However, the sensitivity and the false-positive and false-negative results need further investigation.