RAPID DIAGNOSTIC TEST

SEMINAR REPORT

PRESENTED

BY

ZAINAB MIKA’ILU 215202131

OLAWOLE JULIANA TAIWO 215202133
ABDULSALAM MUBARAK OLAMIDE 215202134
ALIYU ZAYYANU 215202135

COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

UMARU ALI SHINKAFI POLYTECHNIC SOKOTO

IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE REQUIREMENT FOR THE AWARD

NATIONAL DIPLOMA IN SCIENCE LABORATORY TECHNOLOGY
(NDSLT)

SUPERVISED

BY

MAL. ALHASSAN MUSA MUHAMMAD

SEPTMBER, 2023

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Introduction

A rapid diagnostic test (RDT) is a medical diagnostic test that is quick and easy to perform

(Mwangi et al., 2015). RDTs are suitable for preliminary or emergency medical screening and

for use in medical facilities with limited resources. They also allow point-of-care testing in

primary care for things that formerly only a laboratory test could measure. They provide same-

day results within two hours, typically in approximately 20 minutes. Rapid diagnostic tests

(RDTs) for infectious diseases have been implemented in many laboratories and emergency

departments (EDs), with the goal of expediting the diagnosis of infectious diseases, infection

prevention, appropriate initial management and facilitation of antimicrobial stewardship in the

ED, where rapid clinical decisions must be undertaken in the context of overcrowding and time

pressure. Even though multiple RDTs are currently available, their successful implementation in

the ED requires careful assessment of performance characteristics, potential benefits to patient

care and cost considerations, as well as a well-organized implementation plan to optimize their

impact. Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) have revolutionized the way diseases are diagnosed and

treated, especially in resource-limited settings (Reyburn et al., 2016). These tests are simple,

easy to use, and provide quick results, making them ideal for use in remote areas or regions with

inadequate laboratory facilities. Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) have emerged as invaluable

tools in disease diagnosis, particularly in areas with limited healthcare access. These tests play a

crucial role in identifying specific diseases, aiding in timely intervention and appropriate

treatment. RDTs have evolved significantly over the years, with advancements in technology and

manufacturing processes. This report explores the various aspects of Rapid Diagnostic Tests,

their importance, advancements, and future prospects (Quesada-González and Merkoçi, 2015).

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Advancements in RDTs

RDTs have evolved significantly over the years, with advancements in technology and

manufacturing processes. The latest RDTs exhibit improved sensitivity and specificity, enabling

accurate diagnosis and treatment. Some of the recent advancements in RDTs include (Lee et al.,

2016).

Multiplexing: Multiplex RDTs can detect multiple pathogens in a single test, reducing the need

for multiple tests and enhancing patient care (Kim et al., 2019).

Digital RDTs: Digital RDTs use smartphones or other devices to capture and analyze test

results, providing real-time data and enhancing disease surveillance (Friedlander, 2016).

Point-of-care testing: Point-of-care testing enables RDTs to be performed at the patient's

bedside, reducing the time and cost of diagnosis and treatment (Dickon et al., 2015).

Malaria Diagnosis

Malaria is caused by the Plasmodium parasite and is transmitted through the bite of infected

mosquitoes. The symptoms of malaria, such as fever, headache, and chills, are similar to those of

other diseases, making diagnosis challenging. However, early diagnosis and treatment are critical

for preventing severe complications and reducing mortality rates (Mwangi et al., 2015).

The Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) for malaria is a lateral flow immuno-chromatographic antigen-

detection test. It involves the following procedure:

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Blood collection: A blood specimen is collected from the patient using a lancet or a finger prick.

Sample preparation: The collected blood is mixed with a lysing agent, which helps break down

the red blood cells and release the malaria parasites.

Test strip assembly: The RDT consists of a strip with labeled antibodies and dye. The strip has

a test line and a control line.

Applying the sample: A few drops of the prepared blood sample are added to the sample well

on the RDT strip (Dickon et al., 2015).

Capillary action: The blood sample mixes with the labeled antibodies and flows along the strip

through capillary action.

Antigen detection: If malaria parasites are present in the blood sample, specific antigens

produced by the parasites will bind to the labeled antibodies on the test line. This will result in

the appearance of a visible line on the test line, indicating a positive result.

Interpretation: The intensity of the test line varies with the amount of antigen present. A control

line also appears to confirm the integrity of the antibody-dye conjugate.

Result interpretation: The presence of a visible line on the test line indicates a positive result

for malaria. If no line appears on the test line, it indicates a negative result.

Result timing: The results of the RDT can be obtained within approximately 20 minutes.

It is important to note that RDTs may not be able to detect certain infections or less common

species of malaria, so microscopy is still needed in some cases (Reyburn et al., 2016).

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RDTs have emerged as a powerful tool for the differential diagnosis of malaria. The First

Response® Combo Malaria Ag (pLDH/HRP2) card test is a popular RDT that detects the

presence of both pLDH and HRP2 antigens in a single test. The pLDH antigen is produced by all

species of Plasmodium, while the HRP2 antigen is specific to Plasmodium falciparum, the most

severe form of malaria. The simultaneous detection of both antigens in a single test provides high

sensitivity and specificity, enabling prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment (Bell et al.,

2011).

COVID-19 Diagnosis

COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus and is transmitted through droplets from

infected individuals. The symptoms of COVID-19, such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath,

are similar to those of other respiratory illnesses, making diagnosis challenging. However, early

diagnosis and isolation are critical for preventing the spread of the virus and reducing the burden

on healthcare systems. RDTs have emerged as a powerful tool for the rapid detection of COVID-

19 cases. The Standard Q COVID-19 Ag Test is a popular RDT that detects the presence of

SARS-CoV-2 antigens in nasal swab samples. The test provides results within 30 minutes,

making it ideal for use in community settings, such as schools, workplaces, and airports. The test

exhibits high sensitivity and specificity, enabling prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment

(Stephens et al., 2021).

The procedure for performing a Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) for COVID-19 diagnosis typically

involves the following steps:

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Specimen collection: A nasal or throat swab is taken from the individual suspected of having

COVID-19. This can be done by a healthcare professional or the individual themselves using a

self-collection kit

Capillary action: The collected specimen is then applied to the test device, usually in the form

of a strip or cassette. The specimen moves through the device via capillary action

Antigen detection: The RDT detects the presence of specific viral antigens, such as the spike

protein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, in the collected specimen. This is usually done through the

use of specific antibodies that bind to the antigens

Interpretation: After a specific incubation period, the test results are interpreted. This can be

done visually by observing the appearance of test lines or using a reader device for digital RDTs

Result interpretation: The presence of a visible test line or a positive signal on the reader

device indicates a positive result, indicating the presence of SARS-CoV-2 antigens in the

specimen. The absence of a test line or a negative signal indicates a negative result.

Result timing: The time required to obtain a result varies depending on the specific RDT used,

but it is typically within 15 to 30 minutes (Reyburn et al., 2016).

It is important to note that while RDTs can provide rapid results, they may have limitations.

They may not be able to detect

Importance of Rapid Diagnostic Tests

RDTs have revolutionized disease diagnosis, especially in resource-limited settings. They offer

several advantages, including:

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Accessibility: RDTs can be performed in various healthcare settings, even in remote areas

lacking advanced laboratory facilities. This accessibility ensures that individuals receive timely

diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Quick Results: RDTs provide rapid results within minutes or hours, allowing healthcare

professionals to make immediate decisions regarding patient management. This is crucial in

situations where time is of the essence, such as during disease outbreaks or emergencies.

Cost-Effectiveness: RDTs are generally more affordable than traditional laboratory tests,

making them a viable option in resource-constrained settings. They eliminate the need for

expensive laboratory equipment and specialized personnel, reducing healthcare costs

significantly (Bell et al., 2011).

Ease of Use: RDTs are designed to be user-friendly, requiring minimal training to perform. This

makes them suitable for healthcare workers with varying levels of expertise, including

community health workers and non-specialized personnel.

Advancements in Rapid Diagnostic Tests

Multiplexing

Multiplexing is a technique that allows the detection of multiple disease markers simultaneously

in a single test. This advancement has revolutionized RDTs by providing a comprehensive

diagnostic approach. By detecting multiple pathogens or disease markers in a single sample,

multiplex RDTs save time, resources, and effort while improving accuracy. This is particularly

useful in situations where co-infections or multiple diseases are prevalent (Othnigue et al., 2016).

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Digital RDTs

Digital RDTs involve the integration of digital technology into the test, enabling automated

result interpretation and data storage. These tests utilize optical sensors, smartphone applications,

or handheld devices to capture and analyze the test results. Digital RDTs offer numerous

benefits, including enhanced accuracy, reduced human error, and the ability to transmit results

remotely for further analysis and monitoring (Reyburn et al., 2016).

Point-of-Care Testing (POCT)

Point-of-Care Testing refers to performing diagnostic tests at or near the patient's location,

eliminating the need for sample transportation and centralized laboratories. RDTs are commonly

used for POCT due to their simplicity and rapid results. POCT with RDTs enables immediate

diagnosis and treatment initiation, leading to improved patient outcomes, particularly in critical

or time-sensitive situations (Mwangi et al., 2015).

Notable Rapid Diagnostic Tests

First Response® Combo Malaria Ag (pLDH/HRP2) Card Test: This RDT is designed to

detect the presence of malaria antigens in a patient's blood sample. It utilizes a combination of

two specific antigens, pLDH and HRP2, to achieve high sensitivity and specificity. The test

provides rapid results within 15 minutes, enabling timely intervention and appropriate treatment

for malaria (Dickon et al., 2015).

Standard Q COVID-19 Ag Test: This RDT is specifically designed for the rapid detection of

SARS-CoV-2 antigens, indicating the presence of COVID-19 infection. The test delivers results

within 30 minutes, allowing for immediate isolation and management of COVID-19 patients. It

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has demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity, making it a valuable tool in the global fight

against the pandemic (Quesada-González and Merkoçi, 2015).

Future Prospects

As technology continues to evolve, RDTs are likely to become even more effective in detecting

and treating a wide range of diseases. Some potential future advancements include:

Greater Multiplexing Capabilities: RDTs may be able to detect an even broader range of

pathogens or disease markers simultaneously, enabling comprehensive diagnostic capabilities.

Enhanced Sensitivity and Specificity: Ongoing research aims to improve the sensitivity and

specificity of RDTs, ensuring accurate detection of diseases even at early stages.

Integration with Artificial Intelligence: RDTs may benefit from the integration of artificial

intelligence algorithms, enabling more accurate result interpretation and advanced data analytics.

Improved Manufacturing Processes: Advancements in manufacturing processes may reduce

the cost and complexity of RDT production, making them more accessible to healthcare settings

worldwide (Bell et al., 2011).

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Conclusion

Rapid Diagnostic Tests have revolutionized disease diagnosis, particularly in resource-limited

settings. Their ease of use, quick results, and cost-effectiveness make them invaluable tools for

healthcare professionals. With advancements such as multiplexing, digital RDTs, and point-of-

care testing, RDTs continue to evolve and improve their diagnostic capabilities. As technology

progresses, RDTs are likely to play an even more significant role in detecting and treating a wide

range of diseases, ensuring timely intervention and appropriate treatment for patients worldwide.

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