Abstract
In this article we propose a point-of-care screening device for the detection and identification of malaria parasite, plasmodium vivax, plasmodium malaria, plasmodium oval and plasmodium falciparum with a time frame of 15-20 minute. In our device we can provide 97-98% sensitivity for each species as we are using traditional staining methods for detecting the parasites. In addition, as we are also quantifying the parasites, it is possible to provide an accurate estimate about the malarial stage of the patient. The image processing approach increases the total numbers of samples screened by reducing interventions of trained pathologists. This helps in reducing the delays in screening process arising from increased number of potential cases based on seasonal and local variations. The same reduces mortality rate by faster diagnosis and reduced false negative detections (i.e. increased sensitivity). The system can also be integrated with telemedicine platform to obtain inputs from medical practitioners at tertiary healthcare units for diagnostic decision making. Through this paper, we present the functional prototype of this device containing all the integrated parts.
The prototype incorporates image acquisition, image processing, storage, multimedia transmission and reporting
environment for a low cost PDA device. It is a portable device capable of scanning slides. The acquired image will be preprocessed and processed to get desired output. The device is capable of transmitting and storing pathological information to database placed in a distant pathological center for further consultation.
