[Further observations on the use of counterimmunoelectrophoresis (CIEP) on cellulose acetate membrane (Cellogel) in the diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis (author's transl)].

Technique of counterimmunoelectrophoresis (CIEP) on cellulose acetate membrane (Cellogel) is described for diagnosis of (human and canine) visceral leishmaniasis (VL). Various lots of antigen were grossly obtained from the liquid phase (10, 20 and 30 tubes respectively) of cultures of Leishmania donovani by repeated freezing and thawing. Sera from patients (and, in a few cases, dogs) with confirmed VL, other parasitic and non-parastic diseases (especially blood disorders and hepatosplenomegaly) and from blood donors were tested. Positive results were obtained in 91-93% (according to various lots) of the patients with VL. All sera from infected dogs gave positive results. No precipitin lines were detected in the control sera. Antigens from 30 (or 20 tubes) showed better results with regard to the evidence of the precipitin lines. Clarity of the precipitin bands appears to be in relation to: 1. the protein concentration of the antigens; 2. the antibody levels of the sera. CIEP on cellulose acetate membrane combine the features of good sensitivity, specificity and speed of performance and appear available for use also in epidemiological research.