{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: Evaluation of a rapid immunochromatographic test for the diagnosis of intestinal protozoan infections among patients attending a rural outreach outpatient department in Northern India.
{Author}: Khan S;Das A;Nandal M;Vashisth D;Vidyarthi AJ;Mirdha BR;
{Journal}: Trop Doct
{Volume}: 54
{Issue}: 2
{Year}: 2024 Apr 21
{Factor}: 0.828
{DOI}: 10.1177/00494755231219527
{Abstract}: Despite great efforts, intestinal protozoan infections remain a significant healthcare concern worldwide. Although many point-of-care (POC) tests are increasingly being used, microscopic examination of stool specimens remains the mainstay for their diagnosis, especially in resource-limited settings. We assessed the utility of rapid POC tests based on immunochromatography among patients from rural Northern India. A total of 78 patients were enrolled in the study. Out of nine specimens that tested positive for Giardia duodenalis on microscopy, an immunochromatographic test (ICT) could detect only five (55.55%). Entamoeba histolytica/dispar was demonstrated in two specimens on microscopy, both of which were missed by ICT. Its overall sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive value were 50%, 98.5%, 83.3%, and 93%, respectively. Its performance was considered unsatisfactory. Although ICT-based tests provide a relatively rapid and less labor-intensive alternative, they should be used to supplement and not replace stool microscopy.