Recently developed methods for the detection of babesial infections

During the acute phase of babesiosis the direct identification of the causative agent is possible by examination of stained blood smears. An improved identification procedure for the diagnosis of Babesia bovis using DNA hybridization has been reported recently. For the diagnosis of both acute and chronic babesiosis, various serodiagnostic techniques have been developed. Recent advances in serodiagnosis designed for the detection of anti-Babesia antibodies were partly achieved by improving and standardizing the indirect immunofluorescence and complement fixation tests. The use of soluble antigens derived from Babesia culture supernatants or enriched, purified merozoites in the micro-enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, solid phase radioimmunoassay and latex agglutination test has provided increased sensitivity and specificity in detecting anti-Babesia antibodies. Immunoblots and monoclonal antibodies have been used for the characterization and identification of babesial antigens and antigenic determinants. The advantages and disadvantages as well as the area of application of the currently available test systems will be discussed.