High-resolution melt analysis PCR (HRM PCR) for diagnosis of Old World Leishmania was developed using the 7SL RNA gene. Cutaneous leishmaniasis samples were analyzed. Sensitivity and specificity of HRM PCR were significantly better (P < 0.001) than those of internal transcribed spacer 1 PCR and similar to those of kinetoplast DNA PCR.
Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, IMIRC, the Kuvin Center for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, the Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, P.O. Box 12272, Jerusalem 91120, Israel.