Journal of Applied Biosciences (J. Appl. Biosci.) [ISSN 1997 - 5902]
Volume 10(1): 483 - 487. Published October 2008.
Evaluation of a Portable Blood Lead Analyzer as an Alternative to Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer
Tom M. Olewe*^, Mutuku A. Mwanthi**, Joseph K. Wang’ombe** and Jeffrey K. Griffiths***
*Vision Integrity & Passion to Serve (VIPS) Health Services at Woodley, P.O BOX 8238 – 00200, Nairobi, Kenya; **Department of Community Health, School of Medicine, University of Nairobi, Kenya; ***Department of Public Health and Family Medicine, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
^Corresponding author e–mail:tolewe@vipskenya.or.ke or amuaa_leo@yahoo.com
ABSTRACT
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.
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