The antigens used in serological tests for antibody detection
have evolved from crude extracts to highly purified specific antigens,
synthetic peptides, and recombinant antigens. The application
of ELISAs for the detection of circulating parasite antigens may present
some diagnostic advantages because it demonstrates not only
exposure but also active infections. The problem with the detection
of antibodies that recognized Trichinella is the occurrence of false
negative results that occur during the early stage of infection.
Thus, efforts should be made to develop new or improved serological
tools for early detection of antibodies that recognize Trichinella.
Efforts in isolating and characterizing the antigens at different parasitic
stages will most likely lead to the identification of specific
proteins with promising antigenic potential. This information, together
with genomic and proteomic data, will provide a solid base
for further development of serological tools. Finally, effective work
should also be conducted to develop practical, simple, effective,
and economical serological tools so that they can be used in field
conditions for surveys. Once these data have been assembled, the
hope is that immunodiagnostic tests will be further developed for
commercial use.