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Serum levels of HRP-2 antigens against Plasmodium falciparum in 568 venous blood samples collected at two general hospitals were evaluated using the ParaSight-F (Becton-Dickinson) alone (568/568 samples) or in combination (156/568 samples) with the new ICT-Malaria P.f. (ICT-diagnostic). Comparison with the reference method (thin and thick blood smears assessed by two experienced parasitologists) showed that both tests were highly sensitive (93% and 96% respectively) and specific (98% and 98% respectively). The positive predictive values of the two tests were equal (96%) and the negative predicative values were close (96% and 98% respectively). Although both tests provided results within 10 minutes and required no special equipment for interpretation, the ICT-Malaria P.f. test seemed simpler and easier to use than the ParaSight-F test. The ParaSight-F test alone was used to monitor serum antigen levels after treatment in 24 patients. Antigen levels remained positive for at least three days after disappearance of circulating parasites (range: 3 to 28 days). Evaluation of serum levels of HRP-2 antigens can be useful for emergency diagnosis, especially in patients with low circulating parasite levels. The ICT-Malaria P.f. test seems especially suited for in-field use.

The authors describe a disseminated multivisceral form of african histoplasmosis due to H. duboisii in a 45 years old black woman. Clinical examination shows characteristic lesions of skin, bones and lymph glands. Lymphography reveals lesions of deep lymph glands and laparascopy lesions of liver and spleen. First untimely stopped, treatment was started again with ketoconazole. 20 months later, the course of the disease is, as for as we can appreciate it, favourable.