Immunodiagnosis of Taenia solium taeniosis/cysticercosis

Abstract

Neurocysticercosis, the infection of the central nervous system by larvae of Taenia solium, is a major cause of epilepsy in developing countries. This cestode is a public health problem in most developing countries where pigs are raised and its occurrence is strongly associated with poverty. The development of immunodiagnostic tools has contributed to our knowledge on the importance of this parasite by enabling seroepidemiological surveys and community-based studies to be conducted. Here, we present a comprehensive overview of the various proteins used in antibody detection techniques, as well as the latest developments in antigen detection techniques and serodiagnosis of taeniosis. A critical view on the use of serology in epidemiological studies and clinical control programs is given and future research needs are presented.