Bench Aids for Malaria Microscopy

Book excerpt: Bench Aids for Malaria Microscopy is a set of twelve plastic laminated A4-size plates produced as aids for the microscopic diagnosis of human malaria. They are intended for use as both a practical tool for health workers engaged in the routine diagnosis of malaria infections and a teaching aid for students and trainees. This new set has been compiled on the basis of feedback received from a wide range of professionals and experts who had been using the second edition of the Bench Aids for Diagnosing Malaria Infections (WHO, 2000). The bench aids present photomicrographs that show the various species and morphological forms of human malaria in thick and thin blood films. Descriptions of P. falciparum, P. vivax, P. ovale, and P. malariae are provided together with detailed instructions on the preparation and use of buffer and staining solutions. The photomicrographs, all at x1000 magnification and stained with Romanowsky stains, show many of the possible variations of malaria parasites. Common faults in making blood films are also illustrated and explained, as well as advice for safe handling blood specimens are also included, to minimize exposure to hepatitis and HIV/AIDS. New sections have been added on anticoagulants and diagnosis of mixed infections, and recognition of other common parasites in peripheral blood smears. The bench aids are produced in a weatherproof plastic-sealed format that is robust and easy to use in the field and at the laboratory bench.