Validation of innovative digital microscopes for the diagnosis of schistosomiasis and other helminthiases

Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) is a diverse range infections prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions that significantly impact health and socio-economic conditions, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). These diseases, including schistosomiasis, soil-transmitted helminths (STH), and lymphatic filariasis, require effective and timely diagnosis for treatment and management. Traditional diagnostic methods, primarily microscopy, are labor-intensive, need skilled personnel, and lack the infrastructure required in resource-limited settings. Alternative diagnostic approaches such as point-of-care tests and nucleic acid amplification tests show promise but face challenges in validation for routine use in diverse settings in LMICs. Digital optical diagnostic devices, such as the Schistoscope and AiDx Assist, offer automated, AI-powered solutions for detecting parasites in clinical samples. These devices are designed to support the diagnostic capacity in LIMCs, diagnostic accuracy and portability but need further validation to meet the WHO's Target Product Profile for field deployment. This thesis validates the diagnostic performance of these devices across various stages of development in different settings. The findings suggest that while both devices show promising results, additional optimization and standardization are required. Future research should focus on refining these tools, assessing their cost-effectiveness and application in NTD control programs to enhance disease surveillance in endemic regions.

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