A Capillary-Tube Test for Antibody Against Coxiella Burnetii in Human, Guinea Pig, and Sheep Sera

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Abstract
Summary: The capillary-tube test, using a stained antigen, was performed with undiluted human, guinea pig, and sheep sera to detect the presence of antibody against Coxiella burnetii. Titrations were carried out in saline containing fresh normal bovine serum. Results of capillary-tube tests were specific and were readily reproduced. Because undiluted sera can be tested by the C.T. method, lower levels of antibody were detected by the C.T. test than by the C.F. test; however, titers of sera containing more than a trace of antibody were essentially equal by both methods. The simplicity of the technique permits rapid testing of sera in the absence of elaborate laboratory facilities and trained personnel.