Diagnosis of neurocysticercosis by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay

The detection of neurocysticercosis by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, the criterion used for determining seropositivity and the method of interpreting results are discussed. Serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples from each of 212 patients were analysed. The results showed that in some patients positive antibody titres may be found in only one specimen. If both specimens are analysed 87% of neurocysticercosis patients can be detected serologically. However, if only CSF is tested, the detection rate falls to 67%. It is recommended that clinicians submit both serum and CSF samples for analysis.