A New Early Detection System for Buruli Ulcer
- Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire Country
- 300.000 € Investment
- 2022-24 Length
The Challenge
Early diagnosis, together with immediate treatment, is the only way of preventing the disabilities caused by Buruli ulcer.
Unfortunately, it can take weeks to diagnose this disease as detection methods are rarely available in the rural areas where most people affected by it live.
Although a number of ways of diagnosing it exist (PCR, microscopy, culture, histopathology, etc.), these methods have low sensitivity, are time-consuming or require specialised expertise and facilities that are unavailable in rural regions where this disease is prevalent.
So, to enable early diagnosis it is vital to develop new and simple easy-to-use tests that are accurate and affordable, which can be used by these communities.
The solution
We are working with a global diagnostic alliance called FIND to develop a Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) that can detect mycolactone, the toxin responsible for Buruli ulcer. To do this we:
- Assess the suitability of the prototype of this RDT: ease of use, performance in different field conditions, etc.
- Launch the production of this prototype.
- Provide the equipment needed for RDT validation tests.
Our ultimate goal is for the WHO to approve this RDT so that it can be accessed quickly, affordably, effectively and close to the areas where Buruli ulcer most affects people.
Impact
If the new diagnostic test works, it will speed up the diagnosis of Buruli ulcer.
This will increase early detection, reducing the number of severe cases of the disease. At present, results can take weeks to arrive, in particular for people who live in rural areas far from the laboratories where the diagnostic tests are conducted. This in turn will lower expenses for patients and their families as there will be fewer severe cases requiring intensive care.
Related projects
See other projects where we fight Neglected Tropical Diseases
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