The Filariasis IgG/IgM Rapid Test Cassette is a lateral flow immunoassay for the simultaneous detection and differentiation of IgG and IgM anti-lymphatic
filarial parasites (W. Bancrofti and B. Malayi) in human serum, plasma or
whole blood. This test is intended to be used as a screening test and as an aid in the diagnosis of infection with lymphatic filarial parasites. Any reactive specimen with
the Filariasis IgG/IgM Combo Rapid Test must be confirmed with alternative testing
method(s).
Lymphatic filariasis, commonly known as Elephantiasis,is mainly caused by
W. bancrofti and B. malayi and affects about 120 million people across 80 countries. The
disease is transmitted to humans by the bites of infected mosquitoes within which the microflariae sucked from an infected human subject develops into third-stage larvae.
Generally, repeated and prolonged exposure to infected larvae is required for
establishment of human infection.The definitive parasitologic diagnosis is the demonstration of microflariae in blood samples. However, this gold standard test is restricted by the requirement for nocturnal blood collection and lack of adequate
sensitivity. Detection of circulating antigens is another commercially available diagnostic
method, but its usefulness is limited to infection with W. bancrofti. In addition, microfilaremia and antigenemia develop from months to years after exposure.
Antibody detection provides an early means to detect filarial parasite infection. Presence
of IgM to the parasite antigens suggests current infection, whereas, presence of IgG
corresponds to late stage of infection or past infection.
Furthermore, identification of conserved antigens allows 'pan-filaria' tests to be applicable. Utilization of recombinant proteins eliminates cross reaction with individuals
having other parasitic diseases6. The Filariasis IgG/IgM Combo Rapid Test uses conserved
recombinant antigens to simultaneously detect IgG and IgM to the W. bancrofti and B.
malayi parasites without the restriction on specimen collection.