Methods, Devices, Kits and Compositions For Detecting Roundworm, Whipworm and Hookworm

Abstract

Methods, devices, kits and compositions for detecting the presence or absence of one or more helminthic coproantigens in a sample are disclosed herein. The methods, devices, kits and compositions of the present invention may be used to confirm the presence or absence of roundworm, whipworm and/or hookworm in a fecal sample from a mammal and may also be able to distinguish between one or more helminth infections. Confirmation of the presence or absence of roundworm, whipworm and/or hookworm in the mammal may be made, for example, for the purpose of selecting an optimal course of treating the mammal and/or for the purpose of determining whether the mammal has been rid of the infection after treatment has been initiated.

We claim: 
     
         1 . A device for detecting the presence or absence of one or more helminthic antigens from a sample; the device comprising a solid support, wherein the solid support has immobilized thereon at least two antibodies selected from the group consisting of:
 (a) a first antibody capable of specifically binding a roundworm coproantigen, but not a whipworm or hookworm coproantigen;   (b) a second antibody capable of specifically binding a whipworm coproantigen, but not a roundworm or hookworm coproantigen; and   (c) a third antibody capable of specifically binding a hookworm coproantigen, but not a whipworm or hookworm coproantigen.   
     
     
         2 - 61 . (canceled)