[The application of parasitologic tests for malaria in health centers in southern Cameroon]

The correct diagnosis of malaria requires a parasitological blood examination. A survey has been carried out in rural and urban health centers of the Center Province in Cameroon to evaluate the practical use of thick smears for the diagnosis of malaria. A total of 28 health centers were visited (17 government health centers and 11 belonging to Christian missions). None of the 17 government health centers had all the materials necessary to prepare blood smears (slides, vaccinostyles, cotton, reagents for staining, microscope, immersion oil). Ten out of 11 laboratories of the missions health did so. The abilities of the microscopist were tested by using 2 thick smears, one with 2 or 3 trophozoïtes of Plasmodium falciparum per field, the other being negative. Six out of 24 microscopists failed to give a correct diagnosis. This survey shows the need to improve laboratory equipment in public health centers and for regular training of microscopists.