TABLE 3.
Results of conventional methods and PCR on different sample types for the diagnosis of cutaneous leishmaniases
| Diagnostic test | Frequency of positivitya (%) | Sensitivity comparison with PCR on fresh biopsy specimens (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Conventional methods | ||
| Microscopic smear examination | 29/40 (72.5) | 89.6 |
| In vitro culture | 31/40 (77.5) | 87.1 |
| Microscopy and cultivation combined | 35/40 (87.5) | 85.7 |
| PCR on: | ||
| Material from dermal smear | 13/29 (44.8)b | 84.6 |
| Cultured biopsy medium | 20/38 (52.6)b | 90 |
| Fresh biopsy specimens | 35/40 (87.5) |
a
Number of positive samples/total number of samples tested among 40 patients.
b
These values are significantly different (P < 0.001) from the value for PCR on fresh biopsy specimens.