Last update:
   02-Oct-2009
 

Arch Hellen Med, 26(4), July-August 2009, 517-519

ORIGINAL PAPER

Cost identification analysis of culture methods for trichomoniasis

W. SAKSIRISAMPANT,1 J. PROWNEBON,1 V. WIWANITKIT2
1Department of Parasitology,
2Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand

OBJECTIVE Presently, trichomoniasis is one of the most common curable sexually transmitted diseases worldwide. Culture is the standard diagnostic method for confirmation of trichomoniasis. However, there are several commonly used media, such as cysteine/peptone/liver-infusion maltose (CPLM), modified CPLM and BBL company.

METHOD An evaluation was made of the costs of these tests in medical practice. Cost identification analysis was performed.

RESULTS According to this study, it can be shown that the cost per accurate diagnosis for modified CPLM is the least expensive choice.

CONCLUSIONS Modified CPLM is the best method for culture diagnosis of trichomoniasis, based on the principles of medical laboratory economics.

Key words: Cost, Culture, Diagnosis, Trichomoniasis.

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