Tools for the Diagnosis of Malaria in the Era of Elimination with a Special Emphasis on Molecular Assays and Emerging Technology Platforms

Malaria in humans is mainly caused by infection with five Plasmodium species (Plasmodium falciparum, P. vivax, P. ovale, P. malariae and P.knowlsi). In 2015, an estimated 214 million new malaria cases and 584 000 deaths were recorded globally due to malaria. The ability to accurately detect malaria infection in all individuals and in all populations is fundamental to achieve elimination and eradication goals through effective treatment. P. falciparum, which can be fatal, must be identified promptly and differentiated from the other Plasmodium species that cause malaria. The gold standard microscopic detection and identification of Plasmodium in Giemsa-stained thick and thin blood smears and Rapid diagnostic immuno-chromatographic tests (RDT) remained routine malaria diagnosis tools in disease endemic areas. Although, in emergency situation, prompt and effective diagnostic methods using routine diagnostics are essential for the management and control of malaria, highly sensitive and accurate molecular techniques are needed in the era of elimination. Traditional methods for diagnosing malaria remain problematic; therefore, new technologies have been developed and introduced to overcome the limitations of traditional methods. This review details the currently available diagnostic methods and new technologies for malaria.