A Capillary-tube Agglutination Test for the Detection and Titration of Theileria parva and Theileria mutans Antibodies in Bovine Serum

A capillary-tube agglutination test is described for the detection and titration of circulating antibodies stimulated in cattle as a result of Theileria parva and Theileria mutans infections. Particulate antigen homogenates of each organism were prepared by the ultrasonic disruption of parasitised erythrocytes. Separation of soluble elements was effected by ultra-centrifugation. The test was validated by examining the antigens in the presence of a number of normal and immune sera, and sera from cattle suffering from a variety of local infections. Antibody responses in experimental infections of the two species were well distinguished. Cross-reactions were noted only in tests with the undiluted sera. Because of the stability of its antigens, its speed and operating simplicity, it is suggested as the routine test of choice for laboratory and field application.