Antigen detection tests

Rapid antigen detection test 80% to 90% sensitivity results within minutes... 

FIGURE 69-5. Treatment algorithm for management of pharyngitis in children and adults.45,46 aRapid antigen detection tests (RADTs) are preferred if the test sensitivity exceeds 80%. 

Most immunodiagnostic tests used today for parasitic infections detect antibody. In recent years, the sensitivity and specificity of many such tests have improved. A number of antigen detection tests have recently been described and show promise, but none of these tests are currently available commercially. 

Throat swab and culture or rapid antigen detection testing. 

The majority of rapid antigen-detection tests available have a specificity >95% (minimizes ATI... 

Throat swab and culture or rapid antigen detection testing From refs. 52, 61-65, 67, and 68. 

To reduce morbidity and to avoid complications in patients identified with prolonged diarrhea and malabsorption and who have a recent history of travel to an endemic area, rapid identification by ova and parasite (O P) examination or by antigen detection test should be used to institute appropriate therapy. 

Diagnostic tests for amebiasis include stool for ova, antigen detection, or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing. 

Sensitive techniques are available to detect E. histolytica in stool antigen detection, antibody test (ELISA) and PCR. 

The presence of antibodies to a specific agent is evidence of exposure to that antigen. Blood tests can then be devised to test for those antibodies leading to the detection of disease states as well as quantiation of hormonal levels and drug exposures. 

The nonendoscopic tests (see Table 33-6) include serologic antibody detection tests, the urea breath test (UBT), and the stool antigen... 

The standard diagnostic tests for fungal meningitis include culture, direct microscopic examination of stained and unstained specimens of CSF, antigen detection of cryptococcal or histoplasmal antigens, and antibody assay of serum and/or CSF. 

Tests were performed on Sis Lupus s blood to detect elevated levels of antinuclear antibodies (including antibodies to DNA, antibodies to histone, antibodies to ribonucleopro-teins, and antibodies to nuclear antigens). The tests were strongly positive and, in conjunction with her symptoms, led to a diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). 

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