Automated detection of malaria: a comparison with microscopy

ABSTRACT

To compare the automated detection of malaria with microscopy. In this study 250 blood samples submitted for malaria investigation were studied microscopically for malaria parasites. All samples were additionally analyzed for same parameters with automated hematology analyzer, Cell Dyn 3700 [CD3700]. The results from the instrument generated as scatter plots [derived by laser light depolarization], were compared with microscopy results. The atypical depolarizing events or positive patterns were observed in 43 out of 250 samples on cell Dyn 3700, while microscopically 3 7 samples were found to b e positive. Three samples positive on microscopy, were found t o b e negative on CD-3700. Compared with microscopy the sensitivity of CD3700 was 92.5% and specificity was 97.3%. Maximum parasitaemia was 6.5%. Automated detection of malaria by CD3700 automated hematology analyzer is feasible for screening purpose in malaria endemic and non-endemic areas