Longitudinal assessment of anti-PGL-I serology in contacts of leprosy patients in Bangladesh.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Despite elimination efforts, the number of Mycobacterium leprae (M. leprae) infected individuals who develop leprosy, is still substantial. Solid evidence exists that individuals living in close proximity to patients are at increased risk to develop leprosy. Early diagnosis of leprosy in endemic areas requires field-friendly tests that identify individuals at risk of developing the disease before clinical manifestation. Such assays will simultaneously contribute to reduction of current diagnostic delay as well as transmission. Antibody (Ab) levels directed against the M.leprae-specific phenolic glycolipid I (PGL-I) represents a surrogate marker for bacterial load. However, it is insufficiently defined whether anti-PGL-I antibodies can be utilized as prognostic biomarkers

SUBMITTER: Richardus RA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5746281 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature