Glutaraldehyde-Treated Cells in the Indirect Hemagglutination Test for Amebiasis

Abstract

The indirect hemagglutination (IHA) test for the detection of antibodies in amebic infection has proved to be sensitive and specific. It would be advantageous to have a stable, uniform preparation of sensitized erythrocytes available for use at any time. Erythrocytes were treated with glutaraldehyde, tanned and sensitized with Entamoeba histolytica antigen and used in the IHA test. Serum from uninfected persons and from patients with amebic colitic and liver abscess were used to ascertain the sensitivity and stability of the treated erythrocytes as compared with sensitized untreated erythrocytes. The sensitivity of the glutaraldehyde-treated erythrocytes in the detection of E. histolytica antibody was comparable to that of fresh erythrocytes. Treated sensitized cells were stable, when stored at -70°C, for 6 months.