Les tests de diagnostic rapide du paludisme en pratique quotidienne

Abstract

Malaria remains a public health problem worldwide, particularly in Africa. In 2010, the number of malaria cases was estimated at 216 million, 81% in Africa. The number of malaria-related deaths totaled 655,000, 91% in Africa. Prompt parasitological confirmation by parasitological testing in less than two hours after arriving in consultation is recommended before any antimalarial treatment in all cases of suspected malaria. In 2009, only 20% of malaria cases reported was confirmed by parasitological testing in 21 of the 42 countries of the World Health Organization (WHO) African Region. The rapid diagnostic test (RDT) is an immunochromatographic test detecting the presence of specific anti- gens of Plasmodium sp in the blood from 10 to 15 minutes. It is very interesting and is easy to use to improve the management of fever and malaria. It appears as a new impetus in the way towards malaria elimination. There are several types of RDT according to the number of specific antigens of Plasmodium sp they detect. They have been tested for performance evaluation under the auspices of the WHO. In recent years, the RDT has taken a very important place in the diagnosis of malaria. In addition, their sensitivities have far exceeded those required by the WHO. Compliance with the conditions of conservation and use is essential for their reliability. Accessibility by public and private health centers remains to adjust to reap all the benefits of RDT.