Amebiasis (Entamoeba histolytica) Antibody Test

Entamoeba histolytica,  the causative agent of amebiasis, is a pathogenic intestinal parasite. The E.histolityca  test determines the presence or absence of specific serum antibodies to this parasite. stool examination is considered the definitive diagnostic tool; however the absence of detectable stool organisms does not necessary rule out the disease. antibiotic therapy, oil enemas, and barium may interfere with the ability to isolate this organism in the stool.
References values
Normal: negative for Entamoeba antibodies by indirect hemagglutination (IHA), latent agglutination and CIE.


Procedure
1. Collect a 7-mL blood serum sample in red topped tube. Observe standard precautions
2. Place specimen in a biohazard bag for transport to the laboratory


Clinical Implications
1. Positive test (titer >1:128) indicates active or recent infections
2. Amebic liver abscess and amebic dysentry indicate presence of amebiasis
3. titers range from 1:256 to 1:2,048 in the presence of current active amebiasis
4, Titer< 1:32 generally exclude amebiasis