Rapid serological methods for the demonstration of Entamoeba histolytica activity.

Abstract

Two rapid tests for anti-Entamoeba histolytica antibody, cellulose acetate diffusion, and latex agglutination have been contrasted with the more commonly employed agar gel diffusion and indirect hemagglutination tests. The indirect hemagglutination test remains the most sensitive indicator of the presence of antibody; however, it is poorly adapted to testing occasional single serum specimens. The three remaining tests are easily applicable to single serum testing. Latex agglutination is the most sensitive, but in its current form it is the least competitive in regards to cost and shelf life of reagents when applied to occasional single serum specimens. Agar gel diffusion is simple and inexpensive but requires 48 to 72 hr to complete. Cellulose acetate diffusion at this time best combines the features of adequate sensitivity, speed of performance, applicability to single serum specimens, and unit cost, and is the recommended test for routine testing of single serum specimens.