Screening
Screening of the asymptomatic population gives an idea about the frequency of asymptomatic carriers of Tropheryma whipplei but has no influence on early diagnosis or treatment.
Seroprevalence studies
Seroprevalence studies have revealed the presence of anti-T whipplei antibodies in asymptomatic control participants.[25][76] These were people with natural contact with environmental T whipplei without the genetic predisposition for the disease.
PCR studies
PCR studies with duodenal biopsies, sputum, or stool of healthy people have revealed that 1% to 11% are healthy carriers of T whipplei.[5][12] The carrier state was highest in sewage plant workers (25%) with a high exposure to waste water and in children living under poor hygienic conditions in Senegal.[3][23]
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