In the current study we described initial standardization steps of a new methodology to detect anti-live Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis promastigote antibodies by flow cytometry, followed by analysis of its applicability to clinical studies. We have studied 39 individuals with positive conventional serology to leishmaniasis, classified according to the absence/presence of cutaneous lesions (L- and L+). The results were expressed as percentage of positive fluorescent parasites (PPFP). Data analysis at dilution of 1:1,024, allowed the distinction of 95% of L+ patients as a group of high reactivity (PPFP>50%) and 72% of L- individuals as a group of low reactivity (PPFP<50%). The analysis of immunofluorescence assay titers did not show any relationship with the absence/presence of lesion. Together, our data support the applicability of flow cytometry to identify cases of active infection, which has not been possible through conventional serological reactions.
American cutaneous leishmaniasis; Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis; Anti-live promastigote antibodies; Flow cytometry
