Field evaluation of ELISA using Wuchereria bancrofti mf ES antigen for bancroftian filariasis

An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay using Wuchereria bancrofti microfilarial excretory-secretory antigen was used in field studies to screen blood samples collected on filter-paper from persons residing in areas endemic for bancroftian filariasis. This assay system, when compared with examination of night wet blood smears for microfilariae, gave a relative sensitivity of 98% and a relative specificity of 86%. Daytime blood samples can also be used in this test, which can thus replace tedious examination of night blood samples in field surveys in endemic areas.