Comparison of Three Detection Methods for Seoul Virus Causing Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome

Background: Seoul virus (SEOV) is a significant causative pathogen of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS). Accurate discrimination of SEOV infection from other viral or bacterial infections holds vital clinical importance. Methods: Our study utilized quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS), and immunological assays to identify the pathogen causing HFRS. Results: For the case, mNGS identified SEOV and suspected host or environmental microorganisms at 5 days from symptom onset. qRT-PCR detected SEOV between 5 to 8 days from symptom onset. Anti-hantavirus IgM antibodies reached positive criteria at 7 days and IgG antibodies at 9 days from symptom onset. Conclusions: qRT-PCR, mNGS, and immunological assays each have merits and drawbacks. Optimal selection depends on laboratory conditions and clinical requirements.