Histopathological evaluation of Onchocerca volvulus nodules by microscopy and by digital image analysis for the study of macrofilaricidal drug efficacy.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Novel drugs or drug combinations that kill or permanently sterilize adult Onchocerca volvulus worms would be very helpful for treatment and elimination of onchocerciasis. In absence of a reliable biomarker for viable adult worms, histopathological assessment of worms within onchocercal nodules is a standard method to determine macrofilaricidal activity. The goal of the present study was to determine the agreement between two independent experts in the analysis of nodule sections and to assess the value of digital imaging as a means of standardizing the analysis.

Material and methods

Two expert microscopists independently assessed 605 nodules by direct microscopy. At least two sections with two different stains hematoxylin & eosin (H&E, APR immunostain) of p

SUBMITTER: Fischer K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9932808 | biostudies-literature | 2023

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature