Immunoassay

Immunoassays are generally simple to perform and allow a large number of tests to be performed at one time thereby reducing overall costs. A major disadvantage of antigen detection in stool specimens is that the method can detect only one or two pathogens at time. One must still perform a routine ova and parasite examination to detect other parasitic pathogens. The current commercially available antigen tests (DFA, EIA or IFA) have excellent sensitivity and specificity when compared to routine microscopy. The detection of parasite specific antigen is more indicative of current disease.