Evaluation of a portable blood lead analyzer as an alternative to graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometer
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Date
2008Author
Olewe, Tom M.
Mwanthi, Mutuku A
Wang'ombe, Joseph K.
Griffiths, Jeffrey K.
Type
ArticleLanguage
enMetadata
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Objective: To evaluate LeadCare II analyzer, a portable electro-analytical instrument used to rapidly
analyze blood lead levels (BLL) in children, and compare it to gold standard, graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GFAAS)
Methodology and results: Twenty two (22) duplicate fresh capillary blood samples were tested using both LeadCare II kits and GFAAS. There was a strong, positive correlation (r = 0.787, r2 = 0.62) between the BLL determined by LeadCare II and GFAAS. In this study, LeadCare II analyzer scored 57% sensitivity, 80% specificity and positive predictive value (PPV) of 0.8. However, its predictive value depends on prevalence of disease and the number of individuals.
Conclusion and application of findings: LeadCare II offers an opportunity to cost effectively screen for childhood lead poisoning in Kenya. Deployment and use of this technology could improve patient care by providing instant results. During a visit to a health centre, lead levels can be determined and treatment initiated immediately where necessary
Citation
Journal of Applied Biosciences (2008), Vol. 10: 483 - 487."Publisher
Department of Community Health, School of Medicine, University of Nairobi, Kenya; Department of Public Health and Family Medicine, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
Collections
- Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS) [10387]