Development of Dried Plasmodium falciparum Samples for Quality Control of Malaria rapid diagnostics tests and as proficiency testing panels

摘要

The use of malaria rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) is central to the WHO recommendation of universal testing of all suspected malaria cases. RDT performance is compromised when exposed to the high temperature and humidity conditions typical of malaria endemic regions in sub Saharan Africa. However, a systematic method to monitor RDT quality and performance in the field especially in peripheral health facilities is lacking. Current methods to monitor RDT performance in the field, based mainly on supportive supervision visits, are inadequate and alternate methods are needed. We determined the suitability of dried parasite positive blood as quality control samples for malaria RDTs using 3 cultured wild type P. falciparum isolates and a laboratory strain. After testing at different parasite densities and storage temperatures over 12 weeks, dried blood was suitable for monitoring RDT quality and for use as proficiency testing samples.