Improvement of a PCR test to diagnose infection by Mansonella ozzardi

Abstract

Introduction: Mansonelliasis is caused by Mansonella ozzardi. It is widespread in the Amazon region, with a high prevalence. Te common exam of thick blood smears stained with Giemsa shows low efficacy levels and has been an obstacle to diagnosing individuals with low blood parasitemia. Methods: In order to increase diagnosis efcacy, the PCR technique was improved. Results and Conclusions: PCR demonstrated the best performance, with sensitivity and negative predictive values (NPV) of 100%, followed by blood fltration through membrane filters, which showed a sensitivity of 88.9% and a NPV of 84.6%, when compared to thick blood smears.