Malaria Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) is a diagnostic method used to quickly detect the presence of antigens produced by malaria parasites (Plasmodium) in a patient's blood. This is a qualitative test that helps diagnose common malaria parasite species such as Plasmodium falciparum (Pf), Plasmodium vivax (Pv), or mixed infections….¹

Principle of operation:

The malaria rapid test detects parasite-specific antigens in the patient's whole blood. When the blood sample comes into contact with the test kit, if this antigen is present, indicator lines will appear on the test strip, giving quick results in about 15 minutes.

Advantages of rapid malaria tests:

• Provide fast, convenient results.

• High sensitivity

• Helps detect and differentiate one or more species of malaria parasites, especially useful in remote areas without microscopy or PCR testing conditions.

Limitations:

• Rapid tests cannot completely replace microscopy, the gold standard for diagnosing malaria.

• ​​Positive rapid test results need to be confirmed by smear examination.

Application:

Rapid malaria test is widely used in diagnosis at medical facilities, especially when it is necessary to quickly detect cases for timely treatment and effective control of malaria epidemics.

In summary, rapid malaria test is a fast, convenient, and effective diagnostic tool to detect the presence of malaria parasites in the blood, helping to distinguish parasite strains and supporting malaria prevention.

In the project of the Vietnam Public Health Association, rapid tests are provided free of charge at clinics and private pharmacies participating in the project.

Compiled by: Le Minh Dat (email: lmd@vpha.org.vn)

______________________________________________________________________________________________

REFERENCES

1.         Viện Sốt rét - Ký sinh trùng - Côn trùng TP Hồ Chí Minh. Test chẩn đóan nhanh - Công cụ hữu hiệu trong phòng chống sốt rét. https://www.impehcm.org.vn/noi-dung/sot-ret/test-chan-doan-nhanh-cong-cu-huu-hieu-trong-phong-chong-sot-ret.html