Dataset of the performance of diagnostic tests for onchocerciasis in DRC, 2015
Description
Skin snip biopsies remain the gold standard for the diagnosis of active infection with Onchocerca volvulus. However, in hypoendemic settings, where microfilarial loads are low after several rounds of community directed treatment with ivermectin (CDTI) the sensitivity of skin snip biopsies is low. Detection of Ov16 IgG4 antibodies, although only measuring exposure to the parasite and not active infection, from serological samples via enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or rapid diagnostic test (RDT) may therefore provide a more sensitive tool for the assessment of onchocerciasis burden within hypoendemic settings. This dataset was compiled from individual-based surveys conducted across 7 villages in The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in 2015, aiming to compare the performance of skin snipping versus that of Ov16 RDTs. Local healthcare centres conducted the surveys, with skin snips and serological samples being collected from a total of 3126 individuals. 88 individuals (2.82%) tested positive for Ov16 antibodies, with none recording a positive skin snip. The sensitivity of Ov16 RDTs ranges from 60-80%, statistically adequate to detect this level of seroprevalence in the region. These data lend further support to calls for enhanced usage of RDTs to ensure accurate measurement of hypoendemic burden prior to the cessation of elimination programmes.