The Entamoeba histolytica parasite causes amebiasis, an inflammation of the small intestine. The condition is usually accompanied by diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. Amebiasis can be acute or chronic and may also present asymptomatically.

Amebiasis is most common in developing countries, although it has been documented in developed nations as well. The E. histolytica/dispar parasites pass through the fecal-oral route, most commonly through contaminated drinking water.

Read more about how E. histolytica is transmitted, diagnosed, and treated on our Articles page.

The IVD E. histolytica/dispar Stool Antigen Detection Microwell ELISA test kit provides accurate, reliable detection of Entamoeba antigens in human stool samples. Traditionally, the parasites have been detected through the microscopic examination of potentially infected stool samples; however, this method requires an experienced technician, as well as the presence of intact organisms in the sample. The enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for stool samples was developed as a rapid, precise way to detect E. histolytica/dispar parasites. The ELISA test has been shown to be as accurate as microscopic examinations by experienced laboratory technicians; in addition, the tests are easy to perform and require no specialized training.

The IVD E. histolytica/dispar Stool Antigen Detection Microwell ELISA test is performed in five steps (four incubation periods and a stop solution):

  • The first incubation: In this step, antibodies attached to the kit microwells capture E. histolytica/dispar-specific antigens present in the stool sample; a washing step removes any unbound samples.
  • The second incubation: This step adds an anti-E. histolytica/dispar antibody which “sandwiches” any antigen bound to the microwells; a washing step removes any unbound antibodies.
  • The third incubation: This step adds a secondary antibody conjugated to horseradish peroxidase; a washing step removes any unbound conjugate.
  • The fourth incubation: This step adds a chromogen, which turns blue in the presence of the enzyme complex and peroxide.
  • The addition of a stop solution: This ends the chemical reaction and turns the blue to yellow in the presence of E. histolytica/dispar antigen. If no antigen is captured, or if there is an insufficient antigen level, the solution will remain colorless.

Each test kit contains 96 wells and has up to a 12-month shelf life. Test kits should be stored between 2-8 ˚C. Please contact us for pricing and availability.