Quantitative Buffy Coat: A Useful Tool for Diagnosis of Malaria

Background: Malaria is one of the highest killer diseases affecting most tropical countries. It affects over 500 million people worldwide and over one million children die annually from malaria. The aim of this study was to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of Quantitative Buffy Coat (QBC) test for diagnosis of malaria. Materials and Methods: This prospective study was carried out at Department of Microbiology, MGM Medical College and Hospital, Kamothe, Navi Mumbai, India. A total of 100 samples were examined for malaria parasites by both thick and thin smear and quantitative Buffy coat test. Results: We found that detection of malarial parasites by Quantitative Buffy Coat test was 100% positive for 50 positive by microscopy and 5 positive in 50 negative by microscopy. Conclusion: We concluded that finding of sensitivity and specificity of QBC was better than microscopic examination in confirmation of malaria. This will help early detection, proper diagnosis and treatment of malaria.