ICT filariasis test: a new screening test for Bancroftian filariasis

Bancroftian filariasis can be detected by using the ICT Filariasis test kit which is composed of specific polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies to Wuchereria bancrofti antigen. Chromatographic reaction with serum or plasma shows a result within 5 minutes. When compared with 454 thick blood films (standard smear method) within the same study, the ICT Filariasis test had sensitivity = 100%, specificity = 96.37%, efficiency = 96.70%, predictive value positive (PVP) = 70.70%, predictive value negative (PVN) = 100%. Compared with 454 membrane filtration technic (MFT), the MFT had sensitivity = 95.10%, specificity = 99.50%, efficiency = 99.12%, PVP = 95.10%, PVN = 99.50%. When we compared capillary tube technic (CAP) with TBF, CAP showed sensitivity = 85.40%, specificity = 100%, efficiency = 98.68%, PVP = 100%, PVN = 98.60%. With the convenience, high sensitivity-efficiency, lack of cross-reactions, no night blood collection, single reagent and rapidity of the test, the ICT Filariasis test can be recommended for screening of Bancroftian filariasis, and is suitable for the confirmation of suspected cases in the field where microscopic diagnosis is not available.