Amoebiasis caused by E. histolytica protozoon, is a major public health worldwide. Delay in
diagnosis and treatment may lead to fatality. This study evaluated the efficacy of immunochromatographic
test (ICT) using RIDA®QUICK Entamoeba test compared with traditional microscopic
examination for E. histolytica /dispar infection. A cross-sectional study was conducted on
100 patients suffering from dysentery or diarrhea with an age range of 3-62 years, attended Endemic
Diseases Hospital, Sohag University Hospitals. Stool samples were examined by direct
wet smears, formalin ethyl acetate concentration methods, stained with Wiegert's iron hematoxylin
and Modified Ziehl-Neelsen stains. Microscopic examination showed 43/100 (43%) patients
having E. histolytica/dispar. Copro-antigen detection in stool sample was done using Rida
®Quick Entamoeba test. The sensitivity, specificity, PPV & NPV of Rida®Quick Enta-moeba
tests were 97.67%, 96.49%, 95.45% & 98.21% respectively with an accuracy of 97.7%, and
without cross-reactivity with some endemic intestinal parasites. The allover infection rate was
significantly associated with residence (P < 0.036) and family size (P < 0.03), but neither associated
with sex (P < 0.471) nor age (P < 0.344). Rida® Quick Entamoeba test proved to be simple,
rapid, convenient, sensitive and specific assay to diagnose E. histolytica /dispar infection for epidemiology.