Assessment of the diagnostic value of RT-PCR on amniotic fluid for prenatal diagnosis of congenital rubella infection

Aim of the study. - To assess the diagnostic value of RT-PCR on amniotic fluid (AF) for prenatal diagnosis of congenital rubella infection. Material and methods. - RT-PCR on AF was compared to specific IgM antibody detection in foetuses and/or newborns in 45 pregnant women with confirmed primary infection. Results. - specificity of RT-PCR was 100% and sensitivity ranged between 83 and 95%. Conclusion. - RT PCR may be considered as a valuable tool for prenatal diagnosis of foetal rubella infection. (C) 2004 Elsevier SAS. Tous droits reserves.