OBJECTIVE

To analyze the results of samples testing of Jiangsu Provincial Malaria Diagnostic Reference Laboratory in 2017, so as to provide the evidence for improving the malaria diagnostic performance in this province.

METHODS

The samples of reported malaria cases in Jiangsu were collected by the provincial reference laboratory (PRL) in 2017. The microscopy and nucleic acid test were performed to confirm the infection of species of each case, while antigen tests (rapid diagnostic test, RDT) were performed as well. The detection results were analyzed among different areas and different species.

RESULTS

Totally 242 malaria cases were reported and the samples were collected by PRL in 2017. A total of 239 cases were confirmed infections, including 163 cases of infection, 21 cases of infection, 11 cases of infection, 43 cases of infection, and 1 case of and mixed-infection. The diagnostic coincidence rates of reported malaria case in 13 prefectures with districts were all > 80%, and the total coincidence rate was 88.8%. The species diagnostic coincidence rates of , , , and were 98.8%, 57.1%, 63.6%, and 81.4% respectively, and the detection rates by RDT to those four species infections were 95.7%, 85.0%, 63.6% and 79.1% respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

In 2017, the malaria diagnostic quality of medical technicians is generally high in Jiangsu Province. However, the diagnostic capacity is slightly different among different regions, and the ability to identify non- parasites remains to be improved. RDT is not ideal for the detection of non- infection. In the current stage of malaria elimination, the malaria diagnostic capacity of technicians in all the sectors should be strengthened and maintained.