Prospective assessment of a new polymerase chain reaction target (STEVOR) for imported Plasmodium falciparum malaria.

The diagnostic value of a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based method for amplifying a new target of repeated genes (STEVOR) in Plasmodium falciparum was prospectively assessed on samples from 210 febrile patients returning from areas endemic for malaria. This method is capable of detecting 0.01 parasites in one microliter of blood. Plasmodium falciparum STEVOR PCR confirmed the results of the thin- and thick-film direct examination method but identified Plasmodium falciparum in four patients in whom direct examination was inconclusive at the species level. Moreover, PCR was positive in two patients with a negative direct examination. Thus, Plasmodium falciparum STEVOR PCR had 100% sensitivity and specificity and could be used in selected parasitology laboratories when expert advice is required.