Development of a highly sensitive loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) method for the detection of Loa loa.

ABSTRACT: The filarial parasite Loa loa, the causative agent of loiasis, is endemic in Central and Western Africa infecting 3-13 million people. L. loa has been associated with fatal encephalopathic reactions in high Loa-infected individuals receiving ivermectin during mass drug administration programs for the control of onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis. In endemic areas, the only diagnostic method routinely used is the microscopic examination of mid-day blood samples by thick blood film. Improved methods for detection of L. loa are needed in endemic regions with limited resources, where delayed diagnosis results in high mortality. We have investigated the use of a loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay to facilitate rapid, inexpensive, molecular diagnosis of loiasis. Primers for

SUBMITTER: Fernandez-Soto P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3983228 | biostudies-literature | 2014

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature