[The latex-IgM-test in virus diagnostic: determination of cytomegalovirus antibodies (author's transl)].

We examined the practical value of the Latex-IgM-test in diagnostic virology. Sera of patients suspected to have a cytomegalic infection were used for serological investigation. Cytomegalovirus produced in cell cultures was incubated with serum from patients. The resulting virus-antibody complex was removed by centrifugation and sensibilized Latex particles were added (anti IgG and anti IgM). The quantity and type of the bound antibody could be determined in this way. The sera were checked by parallel determination by another reliable method, the neutralization test. Immunoglobulins G and M separated and tested for antibodies. The usefulness of the Latex-IgM test for the routine diagnostics could be evaluated in the present study.