MM3-ELISA detection of Fasciola hepatica coproantigens in preserved human stool samples.
In this study, we evaluate the MM3-COPRO method for detection of Fasciola coproantigens in human fecal samples, and the usefulness of a new preservative/diluent, CoproGuard, developed for preservation of Fasciola coproantigens. The MM3-COPRO assay was evaluated with 213 samples from healthy patients, 30 Fasciola positive fecal samples (according to the Kato-Katz method), and 83 samples from patients with other parasitic infections. All Fasciola positive specimens were detected with the MM3-COPRO assay (100% sensitivity) and there was no cross-reactivity with other common parasites present in the clinical specimens analyzed (100% specificity). The use of CoproGuard enhanced coproantigen extraction without affecting the detection limit of the assay, and the antigenicity of Fasciola coproantigens in fecal samples stored at 37 degrees C was retained throughout the entire observation period (120 days). We concluded that the MM3-COPRO ELISA combined with the use of CoproGuard may be a very useful tool for the diagnosis of human fascioliasis.
Ubeira
Florencio M
FM
Laboratorio de Parasitología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain. fm.ubeira@usc.es
Muiño
Laura
L
Valero
M Adela
MA
Periago
M Victoria
MV
Pérez-Crespo
Ignacio
I
Mezo
Mercedes
M
González-Warleta
Marta
M
Romarís
Fernanda
F
Paniagua
Esperanza
E
Cortizo
Sandra
S
Llovo
José
J
Más-Coma
Santiago
S
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000818:Animals; D000947:Antigens, Helminth / Q000032:analysis*; D004797:Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay / Q000379:methods*; D005210:Fasciola hepatica / Q000276:immunology / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D005243:Feces / Q000469:parasitology*; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D010270:Parasite Egg Count; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity
D000947:Antigens, Helminth