Parasitologic diagnosis of malaria: routine and new laboratory techniques

Malaria is a common pathology in France, due to an increasing number of tra velers and the emergence of drug-resistant strains of P. falciparum. In 199 7, 2,798 cases of malaria were reported to the CNRMI. Most malaria infectio ns were due to P. falciparum, the life-threatening species. Since clinical findings are nonspecific, the diagnosis of malaria is proved by identifying parasites in blood, thus the biologist's role is essential. Thin film tech nique remains the reference examination for inexperienced microscope observ ers who must perform an emergency diagnosis for malaria. Various diagnostic procedures are reviewed and a decision-making chart is suggested in order to give a quick and accurate diagnosis. (C) 1999 Editions scientifiques et medicales Elsevier SAS.