Abstract:
The main aim of this study was to evaluate the immunochromatographic test versus microscopy for the detection of malaria in Gezira State- Sudan. A cross- sectional study was carried out during the period between December 2008 to January 2009. A total number of 250 students (age between 6-16 years old, mean age was 11 years) were included in this study. Male: female ratio was 71:179 (28.4% and 71.6% respectively). Blood samples were taken from all subjects. Clinical and parasitological data were obtained and recorded. Out of 250 blood samples, 71 (28%) were positive for P.falciparum by using Giemsa's stained blood films. Moreover, out of 250 blood samples, 80 (32%) were found to be positive when examined by immuno chromatogrophic test (ICT). In this study no difference in gender and age was found in relation to malaria infection. The study reflected that all the positive cases were P.falciparum which indicates that P.falciparum is predominant species in the study area. The current study showed that there was no relationship between malaria infection and clinical symptoms (fever, headache, vomiting and diarrhea). This study indicated that the study area is highly endemic for malaria and the prevalence rate of malaria infection is reflecting high. On the other hand, the study demonstrated that very high sensitivity (100%) for the ICT for malaria diagnosis.
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