Saving Private Ryan: The Indian Scenario (Rapid Diagnosis of Malaria at Regimental Aid Post)

Immunochromatography test (ICT) (Paracheck Pf) for diagnosis of Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) infection was compared with the conventional smear examination method. A total of 350 specimens of blood from cases of fever were investigated (falciparum malaria 220, vivax malaria 100, controls 30). Paracheck Pf ICT was found to have enormous advantages over smear examination due to its high degree of sensitivity, specificity, speed and ease of performance. Paracheck Pf ICT test kits are stable at room temperature. Regimental medical officers (RMOs) and nursing assistants with minimal training can safely practise Paracheck Pf ICT method. Introduction of this test method in the Armed Forces can facilitate early diagnosis and specific treatment of falciparum malaria even at far flung places. This will have enormous beneficial effect in reducing morbidity due to malaria and saving precious lives. In short as well as long term, it is a viable cost effective option.