Molecular Detection ofPlasmodium falciparumInfection in Matched Peripheral and Placental Blood Samples from Delivering Women in Libreville, Gabon

[摘要] Submicroscopic infections account for more than 50% of allPlasmodium (P.)infections in areas with decreasing malaria prevalence and might contribute to poor pregnancy outcomes. The frequency of submicroscopicP. falciparuminfections was assessed in matched peripheral and placental blood samples with microscopy negative or discordant results according to IPTp administration.Methods.P. falciparuminfection was detected by nested PCR in matched blood samples collected from delivering women with a history of antimalarial drug treatment and living in Gabon.Results. SubmicroscopicP. falciparuminfections were detected in 87% (n=33) of the 44 selected matched samples. Plasmodial DNA was found in 90% (n=35/39) and 87% (n=33/38) of microscopy negative peripheral and placental blood samples, respectively. Overall, 95% of samples obtained during the high IPTp-SP coverage period had a submicroscopic infection versus 79% among those from the low coverage period.Conclusion. Submicroscopic infections frequency is high in peripheral and placental blood samples from delivering women with a history of antimalarial treatment whatever the level of IPTp coverage. These data highlight the need of accurate diagnostic tools for a regular antenatal screening of malaria during the pregnancy in endemic areas.

[学科分类] 传染病学