Evaluation of Parasite Lactate Dehydrogenase-based Immunochromatographic Antigen Assay (DiaMed OptiMAL(epsilon)) for Rapid Diagnosis of Malaria / 대한임상병리학회지

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Microscopic examination of peripheral blood smears has been a standard diagnostic test for malarial infection for a long time, but it is labor-intensive and time-consuming. Recently, a rapid diagnostic test for malarial infection containing a dipstick bearing monoclonal antibodies against the intracellular metabolic enzyme, parasite lactate dehydrogenase (pLDH), was introduced (DiaMed OptiMAL(epsilon)). We evaluated the usefulness of the OptiMAL test in malaria diagnosis by comparing with a microscopic examination of peripheral blood smears. METHODS: Fifty-eight (initial 44 and follow-up 14) whole blood samples were obtained from 44 patients who were suspected of having malarial infection. After 1 drop of whole blood reacted with the dipstick, band numbers and positions on the dipsticks determined the results. All results were compared to those of microscopic examination findings. RESULTS: The OptiMAL test revealed 100% sensitivity and specificity by comparing with the microscopic examination. The intensity of stained bands showed positively correlated with the severity of parasitemia. The OptiMAL test revealed a more rapid negative conversion than the microscopic examination after treatment. CONCLUSIONS: The OptiMAL test is a simple, rapid and accurate test for diagnosis of malarial infection; moreover, it is good tool for monitoring after treatment.