Rapid and Sensitive Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Test for Clostridium difficile Detection Challenges Cytotoxin B Cell Test and Culture as Gold Standard

ABSTRACT

Compared to the composite gold standard cytotoxin B assay and toxigenic culture, the loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) test for Clostridium difficile had a sensitivity and specificity of 98%, positive predictive value of 92%, and negative predictive value of >99%. A one-hour turnaround time for the LAMP test provides rapid diagnosis and cost savings.