A rapid diagnostic test (RDT) used under NVBDCP detects histidine-rich protein 2 (HRP-2). This antigen is specific for which malaria parasite?
- A Plasmodium vivax
- B Plasmodium falciparum ✓
- C Plasmodium malariae
- D Plasmodium ovale
Correct answer: B. Plasmodium falciparum
Explanation
HRP-2 is a water-soluble protein expressed by blood stages of P. falciparum and is the target of most falciparum-specific RDTs used in India. Many Indian field RDTs are combination tests detecting both HRP-2 (falciparum) and pLDH (pan-malarial) so that vivax can also be picked up. HRP-2 may remain detectable for weeks after parasite clearance, which limits its use in assessing treatment response.
Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 26th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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