Investigations

There are a number of tests that are used in virology lab. There are Direct and Indirect methods of viral detection.

The direct methods are very useful to detect virus at the time of infection. The result obtained with this method can influence management. Indirect methods are used to detect antibodies, however some are useful to diagnose infection like HIV antibodies. In order to benefit most from the laboratory services, the clinicians should be aware of the clinical benefits and the cost before ordering tests.

Clinicians should be encouraged to seek advise from virologists to find about Appropriate Sample and Tests for the given problems.

For some of the viral infection there are a number of markers that could confuse most doctors. It is the duty of virologists to provide Interpretations of these results.