Reports on Plasmodium falciparum Histidine Rich Protein 2/3 Gene Deletions among African Countries between January 2010 and December 2021 Employed Different Methodological Approaches: A Systematic Review

Background: Plasmodium falciparum histidine rich protein 2/3 gene deletions (Pfhrp2/3gd) threatens usefulness of mRDT in diagnosing malaria cases. This review was performed to assess the methods used to report findings on those deletions between January 2010 and December 2021.

Methods: Present search was performed using Medline, Google Scholar and PubMed.

Results: Out of 94 articles identified, 19% (n=18) were included. Reviewed articles varied in methods employed to report those deletions.

Conclusion: Methodological approaches for the Reports between January 2010 and December 2021 on Pfhrp2/3gd are varying and this implies that the findings may not be generalized. Prospective studies aiming at assessing Pfhrp2/3gd need to consider WHO guidelines since such studies are important in assessing the magnitude of Pfhrp2/3gd and therefore provide information towards formulating and change of policies aiming at malaria control.