A simple and sensitive test for field diagnosis of Post Kala-azar Dermal Leishmaniasis

Abstract

Background: Current methods for diagnosis of post kala-azar dermal leishmaniasis (PKDL) do not offer adequate sensitivity and specificity. Objectives To develop a simple and sensitive test for field diagnosis of PKDL. Methods: Immunochromatographic nitrocellulose strips precoated with recombinant k39 antigen were evaluated for the detection of circulating antibodies to leishmanial k39 in PKDL sera. A drop of serum applied to the strip followed by buffer led to the development of two visible bands indicating the presence of anti-k39 IgG. Results: The strip test was able to detect cases of PKDL with 91% sensitivity. The specificity of the test was evaluated using controls with other skin diseases, other common infections and healthy persons from endemic and non-endemic regions. Of 125 controls examined, all were negative on the strip test, indicating 100% specificity of the test. Conclusions: The immunochromatographic nitrocellulose strips provide a non-invasive, rapid and accurate method for diagnosing PKDL. © 2001 British Association of Dermatologists.