Pan-specific Plasmodium lactate dehydrogenase (PpanLDH)

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Use of PpanLDH in diagnosis The pLDH assays identify enzymes of the malaria glycolytic pathway, the proteins are distinct from human forms of LDH allowing them to be identified by RDT tests. The LDH antgens are relatively rapidly cleared from the blood, so have value in testing response to treatment or for malaria testing in recently infected patients.There are species-specific forms of LDH (see separate description). The non-species-specific form (PpanLDH) is most widely used in combination with a species-specific antigen: most often recognising P.falciparum, although in some geographical areas this is a form that recognises P.vivax. Choice depends very much on local prevalance. For example: PF dominant but concern of resistance PF dominant but other species frequently encountered PV dominant but PF possible Characteristics of pan-specific forms of LDH Not a general malaria test as has poor sensitivity for some species, expect: