Hydatid antibodies

Last updated: Tuesday, 23, March, 2004

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Item Process
Specimen

5-10 mL blood in plain tube.

Method

EIA, CFT, IHA, IEP.

Application

Confirmation of diagnosis of hydatid (Echinococcus granulosus or E. multilocularis) cysts; tests do not distinguish between the two species.

Interpretation

A positive result on EIA, CFT or IHA testing indicates past or present infection; tests may remain positive even when cysts are non-viable.
False positive and negative results occur.

A positive immunoelectrophoresis ('arc 5') test correlates with active hydatid disease.

Reference

McManus DP et al. Lancet 2003; 362: 1295-1304.

Poretti D et al. Am J Trop Med Hyg 1999; 60: 193-198.