value of 2-mercaptoethanol test in diagnosing recurrent active brucellosis

ABSTRACT

Brucellosis is endemic in Iraq; particularly in Northern parts. Several problems are encountered in diagnosing the disease depending on serological tests; especially among cases suspected to have reactivation of the disease. To evaluate the value of 2-Mercaptoethanol [2ME] test in diagnosing recurrent active brucellosis. The study population consisted of 466 patients who had been treated and cured from a previous attack of brucellosis [diagnosed clinically or serologically], who returned suffering from symptoms suggesting a new attack of brucellosis with positive slide agglutination [SAT] test and on whom a 2ME test was conducted. Patients were collected from A1-Salam teaching hospital in Mosul during 2 years period [1999-2000]. The 2ME test was positive in 184/408 [45%]. The probability of having a positive 2ME test increased if the SAT was positive at high titers. The study also revealed high lgG antibody titers, mainly ranged between 1160 and 1640, with doubled positive rate among females in comparison to males. The study revealed that 2ME test is useful in diagnosing about 45% of suspected cases with activation of previously treated and cured brucellosis. A direct SAT should first be conducted for suspected cases and the probability of having a positive 2ME test has increased if the primary SAT was positive at higher titers