VRL announces that we now have 3 methodologies available for our clients, for the detection of SVV (Simian Varicella Virus) IgG antibodies:
SVV ELISA (Test code: L111; Specimen requirements: 0.5 – 1.0 ml serum)
SVV IFA (Test code: F111; Specimen requirements: 0.5 – 1.0 ml serum)
SVV DIA (Test code: 111; Specimen requirements: 0.5 – 1.0 ml serum)
Simian varicella virus (SVV) causes an erythematous varicella-like disease in Old World monkeys. SVV is closely related to varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which causes human varicella (chickenpox) in the primary infection and herpes zoster (shingles) in the reactivation stage. SVV is highly contagious and the transmission is through inhalation of aerosols containing the virus or by direct contact with infected skin lesions. The development of simian varicella in primary infection is 10-15 days, with various symptoms from an unnoticeable infection to a highly fatal disease. SVV establishes a lifelong latency in neural ganglia after primary infection resolves. Reactivation of SVV causes a secondary disease corresponding to herpes zoster, but its clinical manifestation as a generalized whole-body skin rash is different from human herpes zoster, in which lesions are usually confined to 1-3 dermatomes and very painful.
The presence of antibodies against SVV provides a diagnostic marker for SVV infection. SVV IgG can be detected 10 days post infection (p.i.), reaches a peak titer around 17 days p.i. and remains a high titer for at least 90 days. Currently VRL offers SVV IgG antibody detection by ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) and DIA (dot immuno assay). IFA (Indirect Immunofluorescence assay) is also available upon request as a more specific but less sensitive test.
Alternatively, the detection of SVV DNA by PCR provides another rapid diagnosis of SVV infection. The presence of viral DNA is detectable not only in infected tissues (skin and blood) but also in the ganglia during latency.
If you have any questions, please contact either Anthony Cooke at Anthony.Cooke@vrl.net (210-615-7275 Ext 850) or Dr. Chih-Ling Zao at Chih-Ling.Zao@vrl.net (210-615-7275 Ext 853).