Rapid and sensitive detection of major uropathogens in a single-pot multiplex PCR assay.

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is among the most common bacterial infections and poses a significant healthcare burden. Escherichia coli is the most common cause of UTI accounting for up to 70 % and a variable contribution from Proteus mirabilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae. To establish a complete diagnostic system, we have developed a single-tube multiplex PCR assay (mPCR) for the detection of the above-mentioned four major uropathogens. The sensitivity of the assay was found to be as low as 10(2) cfu/ml of cells. The mPCR evaluated on 280 clinical isolates detected 100 % of E. coli, P. aeruginosa, P. mirabilis and 95 % of K. pneumonia. The assay was performed on 50 urine samples and found to be specific and sensitive for clinical diagnosis. In addition, the mPCR was also validated on spiked urine samples using 40 clinical isolates to demonstrate its application under different strain used in this assay. In total, mPCR reported here is a rapid and simple screening tool that can compete with conventional biochemical-based screening assays that may require 2-3 days for detection.

Seroepidemiology of Helicobacter pylori infection in an urban, upper class population in Chennai.

BACKGROUND: In India, no true population-based seroepidemiological data on Helicobacter pylori infection are available. Serological studies have been done on hospital-based subjects chosen predominantly from lower socioeconomic strata. METHODS: A population-based serological study was done in a randomly selected urban, upper class population (children under 12 excluded). Of 163 households, 126 participated (response rate 77%); the number of respondents was 406. Blood was collected from 354 persons (response rate 87%). A latex agglutination test was used for serology. Demographic data, socioeconomic indicators and history of treatment for acid-peptic disease (APD) were also collected. RESULTS: The overall seroprevalence was 49.4% (95% confidence interval 44.1-54.8). Seroprevalence increased with age, ranging from 21.1% in the 12-20 years age group to 76.2% in the > 70 years group (p = 0.0003), and with larger family size (p < 0.05); it was lower among those living in nuclear families (p < 0.03). No association was found with gender, treatment for APD, and number of generations living together. CONCLUSIONS: Though the overall seroprevalence of H. pylori in this urban, educated, upper class population is high, the age-specific prevalence is different from what has been reported earlier in India; the pattern resembles that of a developed country.