Immuno/Biochemical Detection
In addition to microscopy and molecular methods, there are methods for detecting malaria parasites on the basis of antigens or enzymatic activities associated with the parasites.

These methods include, among others:

• detection of an antigen (histidine rich protein-2, HRP-2) associated with malaria parasites (especially P. falciparum and P. vivax)
• detection of a Plasmodium associated lactate dehydrogenase (pLDH) either through its enzymatic activity or by immunoassay

The detection of HRP-2 and of pLDH  forms the basis for diagnostic kits that have been, and continue to be evaluated.  Consensus information, when available, will be reviewed.