Comparative performance evaluation of blood film microscopy for the diagnosis of bovine trypanosomosis by some laboratories in North-central Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Due to its affordability in disease affected communities and suitability for field application, microscopy has historically been considered the gold standard for field diagnosis of trypanosomosis in rural settings. Aim: This works aims to compare the performance of microscopists on bovine trypanosome microscopy by organizing the first comparative assessment on a correct reading of slides by laboratory professionals using the read slide results and a structured interviewer administered questionnaire in North-central Nigeria. Methods: Ten (10) Participants were addressed, as they were sent a panel of two slides (Slide 1: No Trypanosome present; Slide 2: Trypanosome present) and a questionnaire. Results: All participants greater than 41 years old reported correctly the presence and absence of parasite on slides. Only 3/8 of microscopist from Routine diagnostic laboratory reported correctly the presence of the parasite. Conclusion: Our study confirmed errors in reading slides. Therefore, training of microscopist besides a nationwide quality assessment is recommended.