Monkeypox, or monkeypox, is a viral disease in which a person exhibits symptoms of fatigue, fever, muscle aches and rash on the body. This virus, originated by Orthopoxvirus, has similarities to traditional smallpox, however, it is considered less severe. Monkeypox, as its name indicates, is related to monkeys, but these animals are not the only carriers of the virus; according to studies, rodents are also carriers.
The way monkeypox is spread is by contact with animals or people carrying the virus. This can occur by touching saliva, body fluids, scabs, rash, urine, feces, as well as through close contact with animals such as hugging, kissing, licking or petting. Symptoms will appear after three weeks of exposure to the virus.
The diagnosis of monkeypox requires a polymerase chain reaction test, i.e. PCR, which allows the identification of a fragment of genetic material in a germ. This technique is currently used to detect this disease, thanks to its accuracy and precision, making it a specific test where a positive result automatically confirms that the virus is present.
Benefits of PCR for detecting Monkeypox
The polymerase chain reaction test, known as PCR, is a method used for the diagnosis of monkeypox. PCR uses skin lesions as a sample, e.g. fluid from vesicles and pustules or dry crusts, as these are better than blood samples. The objective of this test is the detection of a fragment of genetic material, which is amplified and then detected.
Monkeypox is usually confused with varicella zoster because of their similarity related to the febrile rash. Clinical diagnosis of monkeypox based solely on the rash in the early stages can be difficult, however, the difference between the symptoms and signs that both viruses possess may allow a presumptive diagnosis, however, it is not sufficient for a definitive diagnosis. For this reason it is necessary to apply a polymerase chain reaction test, PCR, to confirm the virus in the patient. Some of the benefits of PCR for the diagnosis of monkeypox are:
- Only one test is needed to diagnose the virus.
- Provides an effective result in 90 minutes.
- It allows distinguishing between different diseases even though their symptomatology is similar.
- It allows the diagnosis of mixed infections.
PCR thermal cycler
The thermal cycler is an instrument used in the field of molecular biology to carry out the amplification of different DNA strands in the polymerase chain reactiontest , known as PCR. A common model of thermal cycler consists of an electrical resistance block that, through a plate, allows temperature cycling for programmable times. The temperature ranges in which a thermal cycler operates are between 4°C and 96°C. During the various cycles, the denaturation and extension of a DNA molecule takes place.
On the other hand, the PCR test has countless applications in basic and applied research, for example, it allows the detection and control of DNA fragments, serves as a tool for the diagnosis of hereditary diseases present in the genome, serves for the genotyping of species that produce infectious diseases and allows the recovery of scarce amounts of DNA.
Kalstein thermal cyclers
In Kalstein we are MANUFACTURERS of thermoclicators, as well as a wide range of laboratory equipment, useful in the area of science and medicine. Our equipment has the distinction of being of high quality and technology, with the most economical PRICES you can find. If you are interested in BUYING any of our equipment, you can find several models in our catalog by visiting the following link HERE. We have thermocyclers and real time PCR available for sale, these will allow you to cycle temperatures to perform the polymerase chain reaction. Our YR series thermal cycler has the following features:
- Easy and flexible module change.
- The hermetic seal protects the consignment TEs, maximizing their life.
- Two-stage hot cap pressure regulator, supports good sealing performance.
- The gold or silver module improves heat conduction efficiency.
For information on our other products, see HERE.