Al Ameen Journal of Medical Sciences (Oct 2016)
The diagnostic and prognostic value of conventional and rapid diagnostic tools in malaria
Abstract
Background: The burden of malaria is raising all over the world and India is no exception. Despite well established treatment regimens and diagnostic tools, Malaria is thought to kill between1.1 to 2.7 million people worldwide each year. Rapid diagnosis and early treatment are one of the key factors in controlling the disease burden of malaria. Objective: The study was conducted to investigate the diagnostic and prognostic utility of rapid test (QBC, PLDH, HRP2) with conventional thick and thin films Methods: The present study included clinically suspected cases of malaria referred to Microbiology laboratory at Kempegowda Institute of Medical Sciences, Bangalore during the period from April 2004 to April 2005. Blood samples were collected and were subjected to conventional peripheral smear tests as well as rapid tests by using quantitative buffy coat and Paramax-3 kits. Results: Peripheral smear was 60.78% sensitive to Paramax -3 kit with 59.21% sensitivity for P falciparum and 65.38% for P vivax. Peripheral smear showed more number of false negatives as compared to Paramax-3 kit. QBC is 67.64% (69/102) sensitive to Paramax -3 kit with 60.81% sensitivity for P falciparum and 92.31% for P vivax. Although specificity and sensitivity of QBC higher than peripheral smear, it was not on par with Paramax-3 kit. Conclusion: The QBC method is highly sensitive and specific and provides a reliable, rapid and accurate method for diagnosis of malaria. However, Paramax-3 test was the most sensitive for P falciparum and P vivax.
