TABLE 3.

Effect of sample storage on efficiency of PCR assays for cutaneous leishmaniasis

Sample typea	% of samples
	SLME PCR		ITS1 PCR		kDNA PCR		Total
	C-Pos	C-Neg	C-Pos	C-Neg	C-Pos	C-Neg	C-Pos	C-Neg
Old	18.2	81.8	72.7	27.3	90.9	9.1	81.8	18.2
New	49.4	50.6	77.8	22.2	90.1	9.9	85.2	14.8

^aOld, filter papers containing the patient samples were stored desiccated at 4°C for 2 to 3 years prior to DNA extraction and analysis by PCR. New, DNA was extracted and analyzed within 14 days of sample receipt.