A Novel Modified Kato-Katz-Parasimax Method Enhances Sensitivity for the Rapid Detection of Schistosoma mansoni in Stool Samples
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: The classical Kato-Katz method, the WHO-recommended gold standard for diagnosing intestinal schistosomiasis (Schistosoma mansoni), has limited sensitivity, especially in low-intensity infections, is subject to interference from artifacts, and requires expert microscopists. These limitations lead to underdiagnosis and underestimated disease prevalence. This study evaluated the combination of the Parasimax multicolor® staining method and the Kato-Katz technique to increase its diagnostic sensitivity, while also reducing interference from artifacts. Stool samples were processed in parallel, comparing conventional Kato-Katz and Kato-Katz–Parasimax. The classical Kato-Katz showed a limitation in detecting Schistosoma mansoni eggs in dense areas. In contrast, the Parasimax-associated Kato-Katz significantly increased the visibility of eggs, with greater clarity. Results were obtained in 3–6 minutes (vs. 30–60 minutes for standard Kato-Katz) from sample preparation and observation. The method also allowed the application of an AI segmentation image technique in a few seconds. The classical Kato-Katz has limited sensitivity, but when Parasimax is associated with it, sensitivity is effectively increased, while diagnosis time is reduced to seconds. This novel approach offers a practical, safe, and highly sensitive alternative for field epidemiology and routine diagnosis.
Source: Preprints.org
Language: English
Subfield: Parasitology
Field: Immunology and Microbiology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7203884747