Abstract
The slide agglutination test (SAT), microagglutination test (MAT), and card agglutination test (CAT) were compared with each other, using the tube agglutination test (TAT) as the standard method, by two reference laboratories to determine effectiveness as screening tests for human brucellosis. TAT titers of 1,253 sera tested in both laboratories were compared. In one laboratory, 1,270 sera were tested by the TAT and SAT, while the other laboratory tested 1,261 sera by both methods. Of these sera, 1,155 were tested in one laboratory by the CAT and 187 sera were tested by the MAT. Compared with that of the TAT (greater than or equal to 160 positive), the sensitivities were 97 to 100% (SAT), 90% (CAT), and 88% (MAT). The specificities were 88 to 89% (SAT), 98% (CAT), and 88% (MAT). For populations with a low prevalence of disease, increased specificity offers higher predictive value, so the CAT and MAT are preferable for screening purposes and the choice between tests depends on the number and frequency of tests performed. All sera reactive in the CAT and MAT should be retested with the TAT.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.