The use of visceral leishmaniasis rapid diagnostic tests

Overview

A reliable diagnosis is critical in the management of visceral leishmaniasis (VL). Early case detection and treatment improve prognosis for the patient and can reduce transmission, especially in Leishmania donovani areas as there is no animal reservoir.

Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) for VL are amongst the most important innovations in the control of VL. These tests allow for patients to be diagnosed closer to their homes. The demand for RDTs was such that counterfeit products began circulating in the Indian subcontinent soon after they were adopted in the VL elimination initiative.

This user guide provides general information on RDTs for VL but is not a manual for patient management. We hope it will facilitate proper use of RDTs and improve the quality of VL care. Though it was developed with the Indian subcontinent in mind, this guide can, with some minor local adaptations, be useful in other settings.