Comparative evaluation of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for the diagnosis of pulmonary echinococcosis.

An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was done for the detection of immunoglobulin G and M (IgG and IgM) antibodies to Echinococcus granulosus in surgically proved cases of hydatidosis, especially pulmonary hydatidosis, by use of human hydatid cyst fluid antigen and soluble scolex antigen. This assay was compared with the following standardized techniques: the indirect hemagglutination test, the indirect immunofluorescent antibody test, and Casoni's intradermal test. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, with either of the antigens (human hydatid cyst fluid or soluble scolex antigen), was more sensitive and specific than the other techniques in diagnosing cases of hydatidosis, especially hydatid disease of the lung.