Dataset of the performance of diagnostic tests for onchocerciasis in Gabon, 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 67 villages in Gabon in 2015, aiming to compare the performance of skin snipping versus that of Ov16 RDTs and ELISA. Gabon has not received CDTI, but features many implementation units (IU) with hypoendemic levels of transmission. Local healthcare centres conducted the surveys, with skin snips and serological samples being collected from a total of 5829 individuals. 383 individuals (6.57%) tested positive for Ov16 antibodies, with 337 individuals (5.78%) recording a positive skin snip. These data show the fluctuation of sensitivity and specificity values of RDTs (measured against skin snipping) when used in the field within hypo to hyperendemic settings and contrasts them to those values established by ELISA. With RDTs registering 0% specificity or sensitivity values in some IUs, even within those experiencing hyperendemic transmission, these data highlight the need for caution on the reliance of RDTs for usage in the determination of cessation of elimination programmes and pushes for calls for the development of novel RDT, with a target product profile (TPP) providing higher sensitivity and specificity values.