DETECTION OF ENTAMOEBA COPROANTIGEN AMONG PATIENTS WITH DIARRHOEA
Hagar A. Shaheen
Department of Parasitology, National Hepatology and Tropical Medicine Research Institute
Entamoeba histolytica is the causative agent of human amoebiasis. In this study, we have used an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for detection of Entamoeba antigen in stool (RIDASCREEN Entamoeba test) and compared the results with that of microscopical examination. A total of 185 stool specimens were collected from patients with diarrhoea and examined microscopically and by ELISA the results showed that 34 (18.4%) and 37 (20%) of faecal samples were positive by direct wet smear and concentration methods respectively. While, ELISA was positive in 27 cases (14.6%). The sensitivity and specificity of ELISA in relation to direct smear examination was found to be 61.8% and 96.2% respectively. This commercial kit (ELISA) used for diagnosis of Entamoeba antigen was more specific than sensitive test, it is expensive and difficult test in relation to conventional microscopic examination but it doesn't require experienced microscopists there for it can be recommended when the result of microscopic examination is doubtful or for survey studies but not for routine examination.
December 2012