Emerging strategies and options

In order to improve test sensitivities when dealing with non-ideal biomarkers, manufacturers of RDTs often seek to use the multiplexed detection of distinct, species-specific antigens. In the case of malaria, RDTs are often multiplexed to detect HRP2 and the P. vivax variant of parasite lactate dehydrogenase (Pv-pLDH), to distinguish between infections by P. falciparum and P. vivax. Alternatively, tests can be multiplexed to select for Pf-pLDH and HRP2, which yields highly sensitive indications for falciparum malaria. [16] Multiplexed RDTs have also proven to be efficacious in discriminating between distinct diseases with non-specific symptomatic presentations.