Identification and Antigenic Typing of Rickettsia Tsutsugamushi in Naturally Infected Chiggers (Acarina: Trombiculidae) by Direct Immunofluorescence

Abstract

Rickettsia tsutsugamushi organisms were detected and typed antigenically by direct immunofluorescence in mites from laboratory-maintained infected colonies of Leptotrombidium (Leptotrombidium) fletcheri and L. (L.) arenicola. Rickettsiae were identified most readily in unengorged larvae, but were also discernable in engorged larvae and all post-larval stages of the vectors.