EDCTP Forum Paris

Development of a CAA/CCA duplex test for improved diagnosis of human schistosomiasis

Paris, November 2023 – On behalf of the freeBILy consortium, Pytsje Hoekstra presented results on the development of a CCA/CAA duplex test, changing schistosomiasis diagnosis by detecting both antigens simultaneously. Incorporating CAA and CCA into a single prototype device, test performance was rigorously evaluated using banked urine and serum samples from endemic areas. Results showed enhanced diagnostic accuracy, particularly in S. haematobium settings, although species identification via CCA/CAA ratios remains challenging. These findings highlight the potential for further research to refine schistosomiasis diagnostics and combat this widespread parasitic disease.