MALARIA ANTIGEN (PF/PV) TEST: RAPID DIAGNOSIS

The Malaria Antigen (Pf/Pv) Test is a type of Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) used for the quick and differential diagnosis of malaria infection. It is an essential tool in endemic areas, especially where microscopic analysis is not immediately available.

This test specifically detects and differentiates between the antigens of the two most common and clinically significant human malaria parasites:

• Pf (Plasmodium falciparum): This species causes the most severe form of malaria (often referred to as falciparum malaria), which has the highest mortality rate and requires urgent treatment. The test detects the Histidine-Rich Protein 2 (HRP-2) antigen, which is unique to P. falciparum.
• Pv (Plasmodium vivax): This species causes vivax malaria. While generally less severe than P. falciparum, it can still cause serious illness and is known for causing relapses due to dormant liver stages (hypnozoites). The test detects the Plasmodium Lactate Dehydrogenase (pLDH) antigen, which is common to P. vivax and other Plasmodium species.