Meta-Analysis of Polymerase Chain Reaction in the Detection of Human Leptospirosis

摘要

Leptospirosis,a major zoonotic disease widespread in the world,would infect humans and other animals by direct contacting with the soil or water contaminated by the pathogenic leptospires.This report analyzes the accuracy of polymerase chain reaction(PCR)assay used in the detection of leptospira specific genes in humans.Seventeen published articles which included 2526 samples satisfied all inclusion standards and were applied to meta-analysis.Pooled sensitivity and specificity were 0.73(95%CI 0.70-0.76)and 0.94(95%CI 0.93-0.95),respectively.Heterogeneity was statistically significant among studies,but none of the sources for heterogeneity(disease stage,PCR type,targeted genes)could adequately interpret this finding.Meta-regression advised that real-time PCR(qPCR)targeted 16 s rRNA would be the best choice for early detection of cases during the acute stage of the disease and was accounted as a good screening tool in all stages of the disease.