[Requirements for the use of ELISA systems in eradication programs]

Users of ELISA test systems applied in eradication schemes must be aware of their potential and their limitations. Means to improve laboratory quality as well as strict performance of the test procedure are essential. Sensitivity and specificity of test systems are limited. Therefore the establishment of a cascade of methods to verify questionable and positive results is important. Thus false positive results, which may threat the general acceptance of an eradication scheme, can be avoided.