District Laboratory Practice in Tropical Countries Part 2

This new edition includes an update on HIV disease/AIDS, recently developed HIV rapid tests to diagnose HIV infection and screen donor blood, and current information on antiretroviral drugs and the laboratory monitoring of antiretroviral therapy. Information on the epidemiology and laboratory investigation of other pathogens has also been brought up to date. Several new, rapid, simple to perform immunochromatographic tests to assist in the diagnosis of infectious diseases are described, including those for brucellosis, cholera, dengue, leptospirosis, syphilis and hepatitis. Recently developed lgM antibody tests to investigate typhoid fever are also described. The new classification of salmonellae has been introduced. Details of manufacturers and suppliers now include website information and e-mail addresses. The haematology and blood transfusion chapters have been updated, including a review of haemoglobin measurement methods in consideration of the high prevalence of anaemia in developing countries.

• Describes appropriate technology to support district health care in tropical and developing countries • Emphasises how to provide and maintain a quality district laboratory service • Details safety, equipment selection, use and maintenance, good laboratory practice and training of district laboratory personnel

Contents

Preface; 7. Microbiological tests; 7.1 Microbiology practice and quality assurance in district laboratories; 7.2 Features and classification of micro-organisms of medical importance; 7.3 Microscopical techniques used in microbiology; 7.4 Culturing bacterial pathogens; 7.5 Biochemical tests to identify bacteria; 7.6 Examination of sputum; 7.7 Examination of throat and mouth specimens; 7.8 Examination of pus, ulcer material and skin specimens; 7.9 Examination of effusions; 7.10 Examination of urogenital specimens; 7.11 Examination of faecal specimens; 7.12 Examination of urine; 7.13 Examination of cerebrospinal fluid (c.s.f.); 7.14 Culturing blood; 7.15 Examination of semen; 7.16 Antimicrobial sensitivity testing; 7.17 Water-related disease and testing of water supplies; 7.18 Summary of the clinical and laboratory features of micro-organisms; Colour plate section; 8. Haematological tests; 8.1 Haematology in district laboratories and quality assurance; 8.2 Functions of blood, haematopoiesis and blood disorders; 8.3 Collection of blood; 8.4 Measurement of haemoglobin; 8.5 PCV and red cell indices; 8.6 Counting white cells and platelets; 8.7 Blood films; 8.8 Erythrocyte sedimentation rate; 8.9 Reticulocyte count. Methaemoglobin reduction test; 8.10 Investigation of sickle cell disease; 8.11 Investigation of bleeding disorders; 9. Blood transfusion tests; 9.1 Blood transfusion services at district level and quality assurance; 9.2 Blood donation and storage of blood; 9.3 Blood grouping; 9.4 Compatibility testing; recommended books; Appendix I. Preparation of reagents and culture media; Appendix II. Useful addresses; Index.

Reviews

‘The volume is packed with much valuable information, which is presented in a format that is readily readable. There are ample clear illustrations, tables and photographs to render the various information easy to digest. The authors have succeeded in producing a work that will fulfill an important need for developing countries. I highly recommend this book, with its Part I counterpart, to anyone with an interest in the practice of laboratory medicine.’ Pathology

‘… District Laboratory Practice in Tropical Countries sets the gold standard, and is an essential read and reference for anyone engaged in clinical laboratory practice in the tropics.’ Tropical Doctor