Abstract
We analyzed the cycle threshold (C(T)) of PCR surveillance MRSA swabs obtained from veterans. Lower C(T) on admission was associated with a positive culture from nasal swabs at discharge. Compared to PCR, direct plating of nasal swabs performed poorly, especially for patients with an elevated C(T). The C(T) is strongly correlated with quantitative nasal cultures. Clinical and infection control applications of the C(T) have yet to be defined and warrant further evaluation.
Publication types
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Comparative Study
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Evaluation Study
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Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
MeSH terms
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Bacteriological Techniques / methods*
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Carrier State / diagnosis*
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Carrier State / microbiology
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Humans
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Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus / isolation & purification*
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Molecular Diagnostic Techniques / methods*
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Polymerase Chain Reaction / methods*
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Sensitivity and Specificity
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Staphylococcal Infections / diagnosis*
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Staphylococcal Infections / microbiology
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Veterans