Eurofins Biomnis code

METBM

Specialty

Infectious

Clinical significance

Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is an RNA virus belonging to the Paramyxoviridae family. They were identified in 2001. Two virus genogroups (A and B) have been described. hMPV is a virus responsible for acute respiratory tract infections (upper and lower) such as bronchiolitis, bronchitis and pneumonitis, mainly in at-risk populations such as infants and young children (generally under 5 years old), the elderly and the immunocompromised. It usually spreads through the population during the winter and spring in temperate regions. This virus appears to be genetically close to RSV, and is thought to be the second most common cause of bronchiolitis in children. Seroprevalence of hMPV is thought to be around 25% between the ages of 6 and 12 months, and 100% by the age of 5. Diagnosis can be made using real-time PCR on respiratory samples, mainly nasopharyngeal swabs or aspirations. Multiplex panels for the simultaneous detection of several respiratory viruses, including hMPV, are also available. Direct detection of antigens is possible using immunofluorescence or ELISA techniques. PCR techniques are generally more sensitive than direct diagnostic techniques.

Preanalytics

• 1 mL :
• Nasopharyngeal aspirate and swab, BAL, bronchial aspiration.
•   Reftrigerated

• A tube specifically for this analysis : No

Further information

[To be translated]
Also available in multiplex PCR (VIRBM) which includes detection of RSV, HMPV and rhinoviruses.
The use of the S14UK transport bag is Mandatory.

Specific equipment available

• S14: Special mycobacteria transport bags are to be used

Documents to download

• information note (N23-INTGB)

Methodology

Real-time PCR

Turnaround time

2 days