EVALUATION OF IMMUNOCHROMATOGRAPHIC ASSAY FOR DIAGNOSIS OF CRYPTOSPORIDIOSIS

Abstract

Cryptosporidium is recognized globally as a major etiology of persistent and chronic diarrhea especially in immunocompromised patients and children with significant morbidity and mortality rates. Moreover, it is one of the most important pathogens causing waterborne outbreaks. Hence, rapid diagnosis is crucial. In this study, we tried to determine the diagnostic performance of Rida®Quick Cryptosporidium cassettes versus microscopy of the modified acid-fast stained smear. Forty fecal samples were collected from immunocompromised patients complaining of chronic diarrhea. All samples were examined by Rida ® Quick Cryptosporidium cassettes for copro-antigen detection, and microscopically using concentration techniques and modified acid-fast staining. Cryptosporidium was detected in (45%) of immunocompromised patients. The sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of Rida ® Quick Cryptosporidium cassettes were 88.9%, 95.5%, 94.1% & 91.3% respectively with an accuracy of 92.5%. There was no cross-reactivity with other intestinal parasites. Rida ® Quick Cryptosporidium cassettes provide adequate sensitivity and specificity and give rapid results. Our results recommend its use as an alternative test in certain situations especially when screening large populations is needed urgently in a short time, as in outbreaks and epidemiological surveys.