‘Dipstick Test’ for rapid diagnosis of Plasmodium falciparum is based on

‘Dipstick Test’ is used for the rapid diagnosis of Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) – Is a ‘rapid whole blood immuno-chromatographic test’ – Uses 2 antibodies specific for ‘Pf Histidine Rich Protein II Antigen’ – Is a ‘antigen capture assay’ – Colloidal gold is used in the test card – Gives results in 3 – 5 minutes – Specificity and negative predictive value is 99% – Not as effective when parasite levels < 100 parasites/ml of blood • Rapid tests for diagnosis of Pf: – Dipstick test (Pf Histidine rich protein II – HRP II) – Leishman stain – Field’s stain – Acridine orange.