Validation of a Semi-Quantitative Real-Time PCR Assay for Malaria Diagnosis and Treatment Monitoring

Microscopic examination of blood smears is the current gold standard for laboratory confirmation of malaria. However, it is time consuming and lacks sensitivity while requiring highly skilled laboratory professionals. We validated a multiplex real-time PCR test for the detection, speciation, and semi-quantification of Plasmodium species in whole blood. Analytical results showed the assays were highly specific and sensitive with a PCR efficiency of 100.21% and 101.99% for P. falciparum and P. vivax, respectively.