Diagnosing schistosomiasis by detection of cell-free parasite DNA in human plasma.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Schistosomiasis (bilharzia), one of the most relevant parasitoses of humans, is confirmed by microscopic detection of eggs in stool, urine, or organ biopsies. The sensitivity of these procedures is variable due to fluctuation of egg shedding. Serological tests on the other hand do not distinguish between active and past disease. In patients with acute disease (Katayama syndrome), both serology and direct detection may produce false negative results. To overcome these obstacles, we developed a novel diagnostic strategy, following the rationale that Schistosoma DNA may be liberated as a result of parasite turnover and reach the blood. Cell-free parasite DNA (CFPD) was detected in plasma by PCR.

Methodology/principal findings

Real-time PCR with internal control was

SUBMITTER: Wichmann D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2667260 | biostudies-literature | 2009

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature