2.3 | Laboratory Testing
Pre-transplant multiplex RV PCR testing was performed twice–once up to 10 days leading up to admission and once upon admission. Multiplex RV PCR is the current clinical recommendation to detect symptomatic respiratory viruses pre-HSCT.24 Samples were considered positive if one or more virus was detected. At Children\RL’s National Hospital, this RV PCR is a BioFire FilmArray (bioMérieux) which includes adenovirus, coronavirus, SARS CoV19, human metapneumovirus (HMPV), rhinovirus/enterovirus, influenzae A and B, parainfluenzae 1-4, and RSV A and B. These tests were performed within a week of and on the day of admission for the HSCT procedure. The result of the RV PCR and the presentation of symptoms were factored into the decision to proceed with transplantation.