SM SM Virology & Molecular Diagnostics

Question 1

Which nucleic acid amplification test characteristic is most important when evaluating a new molecular diagnostic assay for clinical use?

Accepted Answer

Analytical sensitivity expressed as limit of detection (LoD)

Answer

The limit of detection (LoD) determines the lowest pathogen concentration the assay can reliably detect, directly impacting clinical sensitivity and diagnostic accuracy.

Question 2

SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR testing uses reverse transcription because the viral genome is:

Accepted Answer

Single-stranded RNA that must be converted to cDNA before PCR amplification

Answer

SARS-CoV-2 is a positive-sense single-stranded RNA virus; reverse transcriptase converts genomic RNA into complementary DNA (cDNA) for subsequent PCR amplification.

Question 3

Which viral replication strategy is used by HIV to integrate into the host genome?

Accepted Answer

Reverse transcription of RNA to DNA, followed by integration via integrase

Answer

HIV reverse transcriptase converts the RNA genome to double-stranded DNA, which integrase then incorporates into host chromosomal DNA, establishing a provirus.

Question 4

In a multiplex PCR respiratory panel, a specimen tests positive for both influenza A and rhinovirus. What is the most appropriate interpretation?

Accepted Answer

Report both pathogens — co-infection is possible and clinically significant

Answer

Multiplex PCR can detect simultaneous co-infections; reporting both results is appropriate as co-infections occur and affect clinical management decisions.

Question 5

Which hepatitis virus is transmitted exclusively via the fecal-oral route and does NOT cause chronic infection?

Accepted Answer

Hepatitis A virus (HAV)

Answer

HAV is a non-enveloped positive-sense RNA virus transmitted fecal-orally that causes self-limiting acute hepatitis without progression to chronic disease.

(SM) Specialist in Microbiology Practice Test

(SM) Specialist in Microbiology Practice Test

SM SM Virology & Molecular Diagnostics