Malaria is caused by infection with Plasmodium parasites, transmitted through mosquito bites.

The card test (rapid diagnostic test) uses immunochromatographic methods to detect parasite-specific antigens in blood.

Clinical uses include:

Rapid diagnosis of malaria in suspected cases.

Differentiating between Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax (depending on the kit used).

Useful in areas where microscopy is unavailable or as a point-of-care test.

Provides results within 15–20 minutes.

Often used in emergency settings, field surveys, and routine clinical practice.

Analyte: Malaria parasite antigens in blood.

Result Interpretation:

Positive: Indicates presence of malaria parasite antigens (species-specific depending on kit).

Negative: No malaria antigens detected (but early infection may require repeat testing).

Clinical Use:

Detects malaria quickly and reliably.

Helps guide immediate treatment decisions.

Supports diagnosis alongside clinical symptoms and confirmatory tests (microscopy, PCR).