Extending the WHO scheme for external quality assessment of nucleic acid amplification testing for monitoring antimalarial drug resistance: meeting report, 14 July 2023

Overview

WHO recommends artemisinin-based combination therapies for treating uncomplicated malaria, alongside studies to monitor treatment effectiveness. Given the threat of antimalarial resistance, including partial resistance in several African countries, molecular tools are vital for tracking resistance. In 2015, WHO launched the External Quality Assessment scheme for nucleic acid amplification testing to ensure reliable lab results. Coordinated by WHO and operated by the United Kingdom National External Quality Assessment Service for Parasitology, the scheme provides quality-controlled specimens and reports to help improve testing accuracy. Experts recently discussed expanding the scheme to include antimalarial resistance markers. The meeting focused on identifying key resistance markers, logistics, specimen types, and addressing cost and capacity concerns. Participants strongly supported the extension, viewing it as a key step for improving global resistance reporting.