EVALUATION OF THE ELISA TEST AS AN EPIDEMIOLOGICAL TOOL IN SCHISTOSOMIASIS

  • 1 January 1981
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 84  (4) , 147-154
Abstract
The ELISA [enzyme linked immunosorbent assay] test was studied to assess its applicability in epidemiological surveys of schistosomiasis. Specimens of serum, stool and urine from persons attending an outpatient clinic in an endemic area for S. mansoni and S. haematobium in Egypt were tested. The ELISA test results were compared with parasitological findings and results of indirect immunofluorescence and indirect hemagglutination tests as reference data. The ELISA test showed an excellent sensitivity and specificity for both infections; the reading and recording of the extinction rates can be automated by using a Multiscan photometer with a great saving in time and money. The test is strongly recommended for epidemiological surveys.