SOME PRINCIPLES OF IMMUNOLOGY OF TRYPANOSOMIASIS

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  • 1 January 1967
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 37  (2) , 177-+
Abstract
Although immunological methods were not used on a wide scale for the study of trypanosomiasis in Africa, there is hope that immunological research will lead to improved methods of diagnosis, methods for the classlfication of trypanosome strains, better understanding of the epidemiology, epizootiology and pathology of trypanosomiasis and ultimately the development of methods of immunization against the disease. Exixting methods of obtaining antigens of Trypanosoma vivax, T. congolense, and T. gambiense are inadequate; the fundamental information on the nature and properties of trypanosome antigens is incomplete;and certain trypanosome antigens in infected animals vary. Recent progress towards the solution of these problems is summarized,and aspects of the immunology of trypanosomiasis that require further study are discussed.These include the diagnostic value of determinations of IgM globulin levels;the properties of T.vivax and T.congolense antigens;the natural immunity of game animals and certain varieties of cattle to trypanosomiasis;and the possibility of immunizing livestock by exposing drug-treated animals to a continuous low-grade trypanosome challenge.