Paedriatric schistosomiasis: filling the gaps. Correspondence between serum and dried blood spot results for quantitation of s. haematobium especific antigen in preschool-aged children (psac) in Angola

Abstract

Background: Urinary schistosomiasis is a disease produced by s. haematobium which principally produces microhaematuria, anaemia, poor nutrition and growth in children. It has shown that in schistosome-endemic areas preschool-aged children (PSAC), that is, ≤5 years, are at risk of infection. They have higher vulnerability, low infection with less diagnosis because of the low sensitivity and specificity of the gold standard. Recent research has demonstrated UCP-LF CAA as useful diagnosis test for low burden schistosome infections. Objective: The purpose of this research is to assess the correspondence between Serum and Dried Blood Spot results for Quantitation of Schistosoma CAA on UCP-LF. The secondary objective is to assess the prevalence of schistosomiasis s. haematobium in preschool-aged children in Cubal and to validate CAA testing in DBS collected onto Whatman 903 Protein Saver cards. Design: A diagnostic test study with a cross-sectional design carried out in Cubal city. Methods: Prospective consecutive non-probabilistic sampling will be performed. Blood samples, DBS samples and urine samples will be recollected from children under 5 years who haven’t got recent schistosomiasis treatment (within the past 6 months). We will compare the infection status (positive/negative) with UCP-LF CAA in DBS and blood against the ‘‘gold-standard’’ diagnosis of schistosomiasis, recommended by WHO. Sensitivity, specificity, predictive values will be compared analytically