A rapid diagnosis of malaria parasites by acridine orange staining method

ABSTRACT

The study was designed to find out the diagnostic value of Acridine orange staining method in detection of malaria parasite (Plasmodium falciparum) in comparison with the conventional thick and thin blood films. Thirty two P. falciparum and two P. vivax malaria cases were included in thestudy and the thick blood film and acridine orange staining methods were found to be more sensitive in detecting asexual and sexual parasites (gametocytes) than the thin film. It needs 2-4 weeks time to train a technician to beable to detect the parasites in thick and thin film methods, but acridine orange staining method can be transferred within an hour. Another advantage of acridine orange staining method is the shortest examination time, lasting only 45 seconds whereas the thick and thin blood films need 5 to 10 minutes. Hence, it is concluded that the acridine orange staining method is useful for quick diagnosis of malaria although accessary eauipment is required.