[Brucellosis among occupationally exposed people: evaluation of immunological tests after vaccination]

For the evaluation of immunological tests during an epidemiological survey and of vaccination with the PI brucellin vaccine, in an occupationally exposed environment, a sample group of 354 subjects was studied. The vaccinal strategy was based on the outcome of a skin test for hypersensitivity: the PS brucellin test. In this framework, the serological status and evolution of individuals with positive or negative reactions to this test were analysed. Sera were studied using the buffered antigen test, indirect fluorescence immunoassay and Wright's agglutination test, as well as by PACIA and ELISA techniques with assay of IgG, IgA and IgM antibodies. The PS test, which was pivotal in this study, was compared with the lymphoblastic transformation test. One prominent aspect of this evaluation was the establishment of conventional prognostic indices for the PS and serology. The PS is definitely shown to be a convenient, reliable tool for screening. Although it does not generate sensitivity it may modify the serological status of both positive and negative individuals.