A Soluble Antigen Fluorescent Antibody Test for the Serodiagnosis ofMycobacterium TuberculosisInfection

Open Access
Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
A soluble antigen fluorescent antibody (SAFA) test for the serodiagnosis of tuberculosis has been described. In these preliminary studies, three antigens derived from Mycobacterium tuberculosis were evaluated in SAFA tests on 42 human sera collected at various intervals during therapy. The C protein fraction proved to be the most specific, sensitive antigen and, in contrast to intradermal tests, antibodies detected in the SAFA test appeared to indicate current or recent active tuberculosis. Although individuals with advanced or far advanced disease demonstrated considerable evidence of energy, it was believed that this would not pose a serious problem in detection of early infection. The majority of patients demonstrated a significant rise in antibody titers following initiation of therapy and maximal levels were reached within 60 to 90 days. The findings indicate that the SAFA test has excellent potential for detection of active tuberculosis and for appraising the efficacy of therapy.

This publication has 0 references indexed in Scilit: