A simplified technique for counting onchocercal microfilariae in skin snips

摘要

A new method for counting microfilariae in skin snips is described. The method, in which slide specimens are reconstituted after drying, is compared quantitatively with two existing methods that are used when the counting of microfilariae has to be postponed. Counts obtained by the new method were closely correlated with those taken in fresh specimens. Other advantages of the new method are discussed and its use in onchocerciasis field surveys is recommended.