5 years as compared to those ≤ 5 years are 0.370 (95% CI = 0.1733 - 0.7915, p = 0.010). In contrast, even when ParaCheck Pf® faint bands are considered positive, the odds of misdiagnosis by ParaCheck Pf® for those > 5 years as compared to those ≤ 5 years are 0.837 (95% CI = 0.459 - 1.547, p = 0.5383). Conclusions We provide compelling evidence that in areas of low transmission, "faint bands" should be considered a negative test when used to inform clinical decision-making. Correct interpretation of RDT test bands in a clinical setting plays a central role in successful malaria surveillance, appropriate patient management and most importantly reducing misdiagnosis."/>
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Table 1 The estimated prevalence of malaria in patients who are suspected of malaria by a clinical officer or physician at the out-patient department of the local rural hospital using local microscopy, ParaCheck Pf® and quality control microscopy.

From: Reducing malaria misdiagnosis: the importance of correctly interpreting Paracheck Pf®"faint test bands" in a low transmission area of Tanzania

Diagnostic Method Estimated Prevalence
Local Microscopy 46.4% (95% CI = 40.6%-52.2%)
ParaCheck Pf®
(If classify faint bands as -) 		1.7% (95% CI = 0.2%-3.2%)
ParaCheck Pf®
(If classify faint bands as +) 		25.4% (95% CI = 20.4%-30.5%)
Quality Control Microscopy 2.1% (95% CI = 0.4%-3.8%)
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BMC Infectious Diseases

ISSN: 1471-2334

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