enhanced sensitivity in plasmodium falciparum detection using nested pcr assay

Malaria remains a significant public health challenge, necessitating diagnostic methods with high sensitivity and specificity. the nested pcr assay is a molecular technique that offers improved detection of plasmodium falciparum, particularly for low-level infections where traditional methods like microscopy may fail. in this study, a nested pcr protocol for detecting plasmodium falciparum was established, using blood collected on filter paper as the source of dna. this approach significantly reduces the time and cost associated with conventional dna preparation methods. the nested pcr assay successfully amplified a specific 205 bp band for p. falciparum in all positive samples. the results confirmed the high prevalence of p. falciparum in the study area, as initially indicated by microscopy. this study demonstrates the utility of filter paper-based nested pcr as a sensitive tool for detecting p. falciparum and confirming malaria prevalence in field studies. its application is valuable for accurate community-level surveillance to support malaria control efforts.