Enzyme Immunoassay for the Determination of Echinococcus granulosus IgG Level in Human Serum
Introduction
Echinococcus spp. are cestode parasites responsible for echinococcosis, a zoonotic disease with global distribution. The primary species affecting humans are Echinococcus granulosus and Echinococcus multilocularis. These parasites infect canines (e.g., dogs, wolves, foxes) as definitive hosts, while humans and other animals serve as intermediate hosts. Transmission occurs through ingestion of eggs from contaminated environments, leading to cyst development in organs such as the liver, lungs, brain, and bones (Craig et al., 2003).
Echinococcosis is often asymptomatic for years, with clinical manifestations arising from cyst enlargement and organ compression. If untreated, the disease can be fatal. Serological tests, including ELISA, IHA, and IFA, play a crucial role in early detection. The immune response varies based on cyst location and size, with liver and bone cysts generally eliciting stronger antibody responses than those in the lungs, spleen, or brain (Gonzalez-Sapienza et al., 2000).
Clinical Significance
The Echinococcus IgG ELISA Kit is a reliable tool for detecting E. granulosus IgG antibodies in human serum/plasma, aiding in the diagnosis of echinococcosis. This test enhances clinical decision-making by providing high sensitivity and specificity, particularly in cases where imaging alone is inconclusive. Early detection allows for timely intervention, reducing complications and improving patient outcomes (Eckert et al., 2000).
Test Principle
The kit employs an indirect ELISA method. Microplate wells are coated with Echinococcus antigens. Diluted patient samples are incubated, allowing specific IgG antibodies (if present) to bind. After washing, HRP-conjugated anti-human IgG is added, followed by a chromogenic substrate. The reaction produces a color change proportional to antibody presence, which is measured spectrophotometrically at 450 nm.
References
- Craig, P. S., Rogan, M. T., & Campos-Ponce, M. (2003). Echinococcosis: disease, detection, and transmission. Parasitology, 127(Suppl.), S5-S20.
- Eckert, J., Conraths, F. J., & Tackmann, K. (2000). Echinococcosis: an emerging or re-emerging zoonosis? International Journal of Parasitology, 30(12-13), 1283-1294.
- Gonzalez-Sapienza, G., Lorenzo, C., & Nieto, A. (2000). Improved immunodiagnosis of cystic hydatid disease by using a synthetic peptide with higher diagnostic value than that of its parent protein, Echinococcus granulosus antigen B. Journal of Clinical Microbiology, 38(11), 3979-3983.