Comparison of Immunochromatography test (ICT) with real time polymerase chain reaction (RT – PCR) in detection of HCV.

Abstract

Objectives: To compare ICT rapid test with RT- PCR.
 Methodology: This study conducted at Pathological Laboratory Muhammad Medical College Hospital during July-August 2016 with collaboration of The Health Foundation District Sanghar at Goth Haji Khair Muhammad Junejo Kandiari Dist: Sanghar Sindh. 400 subjects from whole the population approximately 674 persons of Goth Haji Khair Mohammad Junejo taulka kandiari district Sanghar were selected in between the age of 10 years to 70 years. The purpose was to treat them if they are HCV positive. All the subjects were first screened for Anti – HCV on ICT method, and then all positive cases were confirmed on RT – PCR.
 Results: This study conducted during the month of July and August 2016. Total 400 asymptomatic subjects from both male and female were screened by ICT method for Anti – HCV. Out of 400 subjects, 142 (35.5%) were positive. The serum of all 142 subjects positive on ICT, sent to Rawalpindi for HCV qualitative test on RT – PCR, HCV detected in 84 (59.16%) cases and 58 (40.84%) cases were negative. The ratio of variation (ICT: RT-PCR) was 1.44.
 Conclusion: Rapid ICT method is less sensitive compare to RT – PCR. There is variation of results in between two methods. All positive cases on ICT must be confirmed on RT – PCR. There is false positivity in ICT method.
 
 Key word: ICT (Immunochromatography test) RT – PCR (Real time polymerase chain reaction) RIA
 (Radio immunoassay) ELISA (Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay) EIA (Enzyme immunoassay).