QBC Malaria Test: Features and Benefits

The QBC Malaria Test is a fluorescence microscopy-based malaria diagnostic test that speeds and simplifies malaria detection, with a combination of features and benefits unmatched by competing products:

• Increased Sensitivity compared to thick film analysis, with proven advantages in cases of low parasitemia.
• Time Savings, with results in as low as 8 minutes, a fraction of the time of thick film analysis, and reduced training time for new users.
• Simple Set-Up and Review, improving sample collection and review for users through patented QBC technology.
• Respected, Proven Technology, boasting FDA clearance and a long history of proven success in dozens of scientific studies.

Increased Sensitivity
Studies have shown that the QBC Malaria Test is 5.5 to 7 times more sensitive than Giemsa thick films.¹  The QBC Test also offers equivalent specificity with a negative predictive value of greater than 98%.²

The sensitivity of the QBC Malaria Test is particularly notable in cases of low parasitemia, as the test allows for the detection of as little as 1 parasite per µL of blood.³  In one study of 49 patients with low parasitemia (defined as <10 parasites per µL of blood), the QBC Test established diagnosis earlier than thick film in 47% of cases.⁴

Time Savings
Preparation and review of the QBC Malaria Test can be performed in just 8 minutes, compared to times ranging from 45 minutes to 2 hours using thick film analysis.⁵

Training new users is just as rapid, as users with just 5 days of training can provide results equivalent to an experienced microscopist using conventional methods.²  In a study of 206 samples, new users averaged sensitivity of 95%, specificity of 98.4%, and correct speciation in 93.4% of cases.

Simple Set-Up and Review
The QBC Malaria Test utilizes patented technology to improve sample collection and review for users.  The Test features a 50 µL blood tube that can be used to collect either capillary or venous blood samples.  All necessary stains and reagents are contained within the tube itself, simplifying specimen processing.

The use of centrifugation improves review for users, concentrating parasites within specific areas of the tube for easier detection.  For a discussion of the scientific principles behind the QBC Malaria Test, please consult the Technology section.

Respected, Proven Technology
The QBC Malaria Test was the first malaria diagnostic test to receive FDA clearance, and its technology has been proven in dozens of scientific studies.  For a listing of scientific studies featuring the QBC Malaria Test, please consult the Scientific Studies section.

1. Bentio, A.; Roche, J.; Molina, R.; Amela, C.; Alavar, J. (1994): Application and Evaluation of QBC Malaria Diagnosis in a Holoendemic Area. Applied Parasitology. Vol. 35: 266-272.
2. Namsiripongpun, V.; Pansamdaent, P.; et. Al. (1990): The Acridine Orange Stained Capillary Tube (The QBC System) in Diagnosis of Malaria: A Field Trial. J. Prapokklao Hospital Clinic Education Center. Vol. 7, No. 2.
3. Ponsilapatip, J.; Namsiripongpun, V.; et. Al. (1990): Detection of Plasmodia in Acridine Orange Stained Capillary Tubes (The QBC System). Southeast Asian Journal of Tropical Medicine and Public Health. Vol. 21, No. 4.
4. Tangpukdee, N.; Dangdee, C.; Wilairatana, P.; Krudsood, S. (2009): Malaria Diagnosis. Korean Journal of Parasitology. Vol. 47, No. 2: 93-102.
5. Oloo, A.; Ondijo, S.; Genga, I.; Boriga, D.; Owaga, M.; Ngare, D.; Gathecha, E. (1994): Evaluation of the QBC Method to Detect Malaria Infections in Field Surveys. East African Medical Journal. Vol. 71, No. 5.