Sensitivity and specificity of polymerase chain reaction in Giemsa-stained slides for diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis in children

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of polymerase chain reaction (PCR)

HIV/AIDS-associated visceral leishmaniasis in patients from an endemic area in Central-west Brazil

“…However, a relevant number of patients (8 cases) presented VL only years after HIV diagnosis, which can reflect the relatively recent introduction of VL in MS (Oliveira et al 2006, Brustoloni et al 2007). Patients had low levels of CD4 + T-cells and most of them maintained detectable plasmatic HIV viral load even under HAART.…”

Lesion aspirate culture for the diagnosis and isolation of Leishmania spp. from patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis

“…PCR is a sensitive tool for the detection of target DNA and offers an effective method to confirm suspected cases of leishmaniasis using samples that have been collected by simple methods (even archived samples) (Weigle et al 2002, Brustoloni et al 2007). The use of samples from archived slides is an interesting approach which may be an alternative method for detection and identification of Leishmania parasite.…”

“…These authors highlighted the historical value of stored tissue collections for retrospective studies, which may be useful in predicting the course of many diseases (Volpini et al 2006). Brustoloni et al (2007) demonstrated that it is possible to reach a retrospective diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis from stored Giemsa-stained bone marrow slides. Slides can be easily stored and do not require low temperature for conservation of the DNA.…”

Monitoring Trypanosoma cruzi infection in triatomines using PCR in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil

“…In the present study, the identity of the fl agellated protozoa found by microscopy was confi rmed by PCR, which demonstrates the effectiveness of this tool, particularly with respect to controversial points that may arise during the identifi cation process. Other studies have shown that PCR may detect the DNA of parasites on microscope slides even years after preparation 22,23 . False-positive results are a potential problem with PCR when used for identifi cation of T. cruzi 24 .…”