Schistosoma haematobium egg output and an evaluation of the indirect fluorescent antibody technique

Results of the indirect immunofluorescent antibody test (IFAT) and output of Schistosoma haematobium eggs have been compared in 112 selected Black schoolchildren living in an endemic schistosomiasis area. The helminth filter was used for the determination of levels of infection. The degree of correlation between the IFAT and egg output improved considerably when multiple urine examinations were performed. There were a number of false-positive results, all associated with low titres; the possible reasons for their occurrence are discussed.