Rapid Diagnostic Tests for Assessment of Initial Clearance and Detection of Recurrent Malaria Infections

Efficacy of Plasmodium Falciparum Specific Rapid Diagnostic Tests for Assessment of Initial Clearance and Detection of Recurrent Infections After Antimalarial Treatment

The aim of the study was to follow clearance of malaria infections and detection of new malaria episodes after initiation of antimalarial treatment in Tanzanian children. For this purpose the investigators used five diagnostic tools, 2 Rapid Diagnostic tests based on Histidine Rich Protein 2(HRP2) and Lactate dehydrogenase(LDH), 2 microscopical methods and one polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The investigators followed the 53 enrolled children during 42 days.

Inclusion Criteria:

• children between 6-59 months
• fever (≤37.5 C) or history of fever during the preceding 24 hours
• confirmed P.falciparum monoinfection
• uncomplicated malaria
• parasite density between 2000-250.000/µL
• willing/able to comply with the 42 day follow up
• informed concent from patient/guardian

Exclusion Criteria:

• children with history of antimalaria drug intake within the last two weeks
• symptoms / signs of severe disease