
Unlocking the Secrets of Antiviral Resistance Testing: Essential Insights for Immunocompromised Patients
2025-06-23
Author: Jia
A Game-Changing Discussion at ASM Microbe 2025
At the forefront of infectious disease research, Dr. Meghan Starolis of Quest Diagnostics' Nichols Institute captivated audiences at ASM Microbe 2025 with her groundbreaking presentation on antiviral drug resistance. Titled "Conquering Antiviral Drug Resistance Via Novel Antivirals & New Testing Methods for Drug Resistance," her talk examined the pivotal roles of genotypic and phenotypic testing in combating this pressing healthcare issue.
Genotypic vs. Phenotypic Testing: The Pros and Cons
Dr. Starolis illuminated the differences between genotypic and phenotypic testing methods. Genotypic testing, a molecular-based approach, focuses on identifying known genetic markers linked to antiviral resistance. While it boasts advantages like automation and reduced labor requirements, it has a significant limitation: it can only detect genetic variants that researchers already understand. "With genotypic methods, we’re limited to known genes; unknown genes and variants remain undetected," Starolis noted.
On the flip side, phenotypic testing involves cultivating the virus in lab conditions and directly assessing how antiviral compounds impact its growth. This method is more comprehensive, allowing detection of resistance linked to unknown genetic factors, but it comes with the downside of being a time-consuming process.
A Targeted Approach: Immunocompromised Patients
One particularly vulnerable group highlighted in Starolis's talk are immunocompromised individuals. These patients often undergo extended antiviral treatments—sometimes as preventive measures. Dr. Starolis pointed out that "patients who are hematopoietic stem cell recipients may receive prophylactic antiviral medications for herpes simplex virus, which can lead to antiviral resistance over time. We must watch for resistance in these patients closely, as it can have dire implications for their health, including delays in chemotherapy and complications following transplants."
Overcoming Testing Challenges: A Call to Action
Despite the critical need for effective resistance testing, access remains a significant hurdle. Dr. Starolis believes that innovative strategies are essential to expand access to these life-saving tests for immunocompromised patients. By addressing these challenges, we can better protect some of the most vulnerable populations against the evolving threats of antiviral resistance.
As the conversation around antiviral resistance continues to grow, advancements in testing methods hold the promise of safeguarding public health and improving outcomes for those most at risk.