Bilharzial Antigen

Definite diagnosis of human schistosomiasis is based on microscopic detection of parasite eggs in feces or urine. This is a labor intensive and occasionally insensitive (35%) especially in cases with very mild infection or intense fibrosis in chronic infection. Biopsy technique gives better result but is invasive and needs experienced physicians rather than technicians. Serological detection of anti-schistosomal antibodies dose not discriminate between past and current infection. Recently, detection of circulating schistosomal antigen secreted by living schistosomes, S. mansoni or S. haematobium, in body fluids using monoclonal antibodies generated against these antigens has been shown to be a promising approach to detect active infection and to asses treatment efficacy and effectiveness of future vaccines.

* Sample Required

-         Random Urine Sample  or

-         Human Serum

* Statistical Data

          - Sensitivity           : 93%

          - Specificity           : 89%

          - Accuracy            : 91% (in compose with standard rectal biopsy)