Comparative Study of Conventional Staining Techniques, Quantitative Buffy Coat, Immunochromatography Methods and Molecular Methods (Gene Amplification) for Diagnosis of Malaria

The study showed that the immunochromatography assay tests were reliable and easy to use. Blood samples were collected from 175 patients presenting with typical features suggesting clinical malaria. These blood samples were subjected to various test which included thin and thick smears stained with JSB, Giemsa, Leishman, Fields stain and the other methods employed which included Arcidine orange staining, Quantitative Buffy Coat methods, immunochromatography strips – optimal and para HIT – f. Assay are used. Gene amplification technique (Polymerase chain reaction) was used. However, RDTS are more suited for investigator / health workers in situations where health services are different (or) absent. RDT’s in conjunction with microscopy should improve diagnosis of malaria, thus likely to contribute greatly to an effective control of malaria in resource poor countries.