Malaria Diagnosis : A Guide for Selecting Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) Kits - 1st edition

Abstract

Overview Plasmodium falciparum, P. vivax, P. ovale and P. malariae are the four main species of malaria parasites that infect humans, with the first two species causing the most infections worldwide. Plasmodium falciparum malaria is prevalent in Africa, whereas P. vivax is present in greater proportions in parts of Asia and Latin America. Rapid, accurate and accessible detection of malaria parasites is important in the prevention and treatment of malaria. Malaria morbidity, mortality and transmission can be reduced if prompt diagnosis and adequate treatment is available. Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) offer the potential to provide accurate and timely diagnosis to everyone at risk, reaching those previously unable to access good quality microscopy services. In malaria-endemic regions, the use of RDTs is very helpful for the effective use of anti-malarial drugs as treatment is based on parasite diagnosis and not just fever alone. In these regions, a considerable proportion of these drugs have been wasted on patients with non-malarial disease due to lack of prompt and accurate laboratory diagnosis.