RDT tests use specific antibodies to identify the malaria species. Users often believe that these tests are equally effective for diagnosing all species, but this is not true.
RDT Quiz A Q1
Explanation of correct answer (click "Expand")
The different malaria species are detected with different sensitivity. The table below provides an overall summary of the sensitivity that can be expected for RDT tests (the specific section in the main section provides more detail).
P.falciparum
At high parasitaemia expect high sensitivity (90-95%). This declines when parasite levels are lower (45-70%)
P.vivax
Expect moderate to high sensitivity at high parasitaemia (70-90%). This declines markedly when parasite levels are lower (30-60%)
P.ovale & P.malarae
Generally sensitivity is poor (approximately half the sensitivity shown for P.vivax)
P.knowlesi
Reports suggest variable sensitivity that may depend on test used, RDTs are reported tp detect this species well when parasitaemia is high.
