Comparative evaluation of various serological tests in the laboratory diagnosis of Brucellosis

Introduction: Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease of public health importance having an impact on animal husbandry and dairy industry. Isolation of bacteria from blood cultures is very low, and diagnosis mainly depends on serology and molecular methods. The aim of this study is to know the impact of various serological tests on the diagnosis of brucellosis. Materials and Methods: In a prospective study, a total of 180 samples, 90 from pyrexia of unknown origin (PUO) and 90 from high-risk group comprising veterinarians and animal handlers were serologically tested by Rose Bengal plate test, standard tube agglutination (STA) test and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and results were analyzed. Results: Out of 90 PUO cases, 28 were positive for brucellosis and in high-risk group, out of 30 veterinarians three were positive and out of 60 animal handlers 14 were positive. Male preponderance was seen. Rose Bengal and STA tests were still efficient methods for brucellosis serodiagnosis. The ELISA was observed to be more efficient in both acute and chronic brucellosis. Conclusion: All the three methods used are efficient methods for detecting Brucella antibody. Rose Bengal card test is the best suited for rapid diagnosis in rural endemic area as STA test is laborious and time-consuming. ELISA is the most sensitive test