Enzyme ImmunoAssay (ELISA) for the determination of IgM antibodies to Herpes Simplex Virus types 1 in human plasma and sera with the “capture” system. The device is intended for the follow-up of HSV1 infected patients and for the monitoring of risk of neonatal defects due to HSV infection during pregnancy.For “in vitro” diagnostic use only.

The assay is based on the principle of “IgM capture” where IgM class antibodies in the sample are first captured by the solid phase coated with anti hIgM antibody.

After washing out all the other components of the sample and in particular IgG antibodies, the specific IgM captured on the solid phase are detected by the addition of a preparation of inactivated HSV1, labeled with a HSV1 specific antibody conjugated with peroxidase (HRP).

After incubation, microwells are washed to remove unbound conjugate and then the chromogen/substrate is added. In the presence of bound conjugate the colorless substrate is hydrolyzed to a colored end-product, whose optical density may be detected and is proportional to the amount of IgM antibodies to HSV1 present in the sample.

A system is described how to control whether the positivity shown by a sample is true or not (Confirmation Test), helpful for the clinician to make a correct interpretation of results.