Accuracy of immunochromatographic strip test in diagnosis of alpha-thalassemia-1 carrier
Wanapirak, C.; Piyamongkol, W.; Sirichotiyakul, S.; Tayapiwatana, C.; Kasinrerk, W.; Tongsong, T.
Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand 94(7): 761-765
2011
ISSN/ISBN: 0125-2208 PMID: 21774279 Document Number: 10709
To determine the accuracy of alpha-thal immunochromatographic (IC) strip in diagnosis of alpha-thalassemia 1 carrier among pregnant women, using PCR for alpha-thalassemia 1 (SEA type) as a gold standard. Asymptomatic pregnant women attending the antenatal care clinic were recruited Their blood samples were taken for IC Strip Test (alpha Thal IC strip, i+Med Laboratories Company Limited) in predicting alpha-thalassemia 1 carrier and separately sent for PCR for diagnosis of alpha-thalassemia 1 carrier as a gold standard Four hundred ninety nine pregnant women were recruited into the present study at various gestational weeks. The accuracy of alpha-Thal IC strip test was relatively high as shown in Table 1. Of them, 62 cases were proven to be alpha-thalassemia 1 trait and all ofthem had the results of positive IC strip, giving a sensitivity of 100%. However 45 pregnant women of non-alpha-thalassemia 1 trait had positive test, giving a specificity of 89%. The present study was solid evidence for clinical application of alpha-thal IC strip in screening program of thalassemia to reduce the need for PCR in diagnosis of a-thalassemia 1 carrier because of its very high sensitivity. The negative test reassures the non alpha-thalassemia 1 carrier status. Moreover, due to its simplicity, convenience to use, low cost, less-time consuming, clear interpretation and no need for either equipment or expensive laboratories, it may probably be very helpful in a massive screening program.
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