RESUMO
We have developed a time-resolved fluorescence immunoassay to detect antibodies to Treponema pallidum recombinant antigens in oral fluid specimens. Using an 'Oracol' swab, oral fluid was collected from 34 subjects with a serological diagnosis of syphilis and 97 seronegative controls. Using a cut-off of three standard deviations over control mean, the sensitivity and specificity of the assay in all subjects with positive syphilis serology was 76.5% and 97.9%, respectively. In those with early syphilis, the sensitivity and specificity of the assay was 100% and 97.9%. In a non-outbreak situation, screening clinic attendees for syphilis using oral fluid specimens is potentially useful when collection of blood is not practicable. In addition, it may have much to offer in outreach projects and epidemiological investigations.
Assuntos
Anticorpos Antibacterianos/análise , Saliva/imunologia , Sífilis/diagnóstico , Treponema pallidum/imunologia , Adulto , Estudos de Casos e Controles , Feminino , Fluorescência , Humanos , Imunoensaio/métodos , Masculino , Sensibilidade e EspecificidadeRESUMO
We describe a device (which we have named a vaginal algometer) which can measure the pressure pain threshold (PPT) on the lateral walls of the vagina. The device was assessed in 63 healthy women and a normal range for this measurement was established. Each woman had her vaginal wall PPT measured and was asked about the acceptability of the procedure. We demonstrate that the vaginal algometer can provide a quantitative assessment of vaginal PPT and that the procedure is acceptable to most women.
