ABSTRACT
A major problem with this disease is the difficulty diagnosing an active infection in live rabbits. Postmortem examination is the only definitive diagnosis for this parasite, with typical lesions seen in the kidney and/or brain. ELISA tests are used at present in the UK to measure serum antibody levels to the parasite. Measurement of antibody titres is now available, with rising levels of antibodies indicating an active infection. A positive antibody response on its own indicates previous exposure to the parasite. It does not, however, distinguish between early infection, active infection, chronic asymptomatic infection or previous exposure and recovery. Infection in rabbits may be asymptomatic, with carrier status occurring. To differentiate between these a rising antibody titre over a period of time would need to be demonstrated.
