This document, published by the World Health Organization, explains what rapid malaria diagnostic tests (RDTs) are, when they can be useful, how they can be used in malaria management, and how they can be purchased, transported, stored and quality-assured. Malaria RDTs are simple devices which change colour in the presence of substances produced by malaria parasites. They offer the potential to provide accurate diagnosis to all at-risk populations for the first time, reaching those unable to access good microscope testing services. Other potential ways of using them include self-diagnosis by trained individuals or groups, and for malaria prevalence surveys.
The document notes that misdiagnosis of malaria results in a significant number of illnesses and deaths. It argues that rapid, accurate and accessible detection of malaria parasites has an important role to play in addressing this, and in promoting more rational use of increasingly costly drugs, in areas where malaria is widespread. Recommendations include arranging transportation of RDTs that avoids exposing them to high temperatures (which reduce their effectiveness); and organising national quality assurance programmes for RDTs. The document also gives advice on how to choose an appropriate RDT, and how to integrate RDTs into health systems.