Sabin-Feldman Dye Test Explained
The Sabin-Feldman dye test is a specific diagnostic method used in serology.
Purpose: This test detects the presence of antibodies in a patient's serum that are specific to a particular organism.
Target Organism: The test is primarily used to detect antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii. The presence of these antibodies indicates infection or exposure to this parasite.
Reasoning: While other options represent significant pathogens, the Sabin-Feldman dye test is historically and clinically associated with the diagnosis of toxoplasmosis, caused by Toxoplasma gondii. It relies on the principle that antibodies from an infected individual can inhibit the ability of live Toxoplasma tachyzoites to exclude a dye (like methylene blue) from their cytoplasm.
- Option A: Toxoplasma gondii - Correct. This is the organism targeted by the Sabin-Feldman dye test.
- Option B: Leishmania donovani - Incorrect. Diagnosed using different serological tests or microscopic examination.
- Option C: Coxiella burnetii - Incorrect. Causes Q fever; diagnosed via complement fixation tests or PCR.
- Option D: Trypanosoma cruzi - Incorrect. Causes Chagas disease; diagnosed using ELISA or indirect hemagglutination assays.
Important Questions from Protozoal Infections
Which of the following pharmacological agents can be used for the treatment of visceral Leishmaniasis?
1. Pentavalent antimonials
2. Amphotericin B
3. Spiramycin
4. Paromomycin
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Consider the following statements with regard to giardiasis :
1. Stools should be examined for cysts at 2-3 days interval for its diagnosis.
2. Colonoscopy aspirate gives the highest diagnostic yield.
3. Infection usually occurs by ingesting contaminated water.
4. Giardia has a flagellate trophozoite form.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
- Infection with which of the following organisms can cause a syndrome which is clinically indistinguishable from achalasia of the oesophagus?
- Which one of the following diseases is NOT caused by protozoa?
- Bite of the Tsetse Fly transmits:
