Question

A boy presented with a fever and chills. Rapid test was positive for specific antigen HRP-2. Which of the following species of Plasmodium is the most likely causative agent?

• A. Plasmodium falciparum
• B. Plasmodium malariae
• C. Plasmodium vivax
• D. Plasmodium ovale

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The boy's presentation of fever and chills, along with a positive rapid test for the HRP-2 antigen, is indicative of malaria caused by a Plasmodium species. The HRP-2 antigen, which stands for Histidine-Rich Protein 2, is specific to Plasmodium falciparum. Among the options provided:

1. Plasmodium falciparum

2. Plasmodium malariae

3. Plasmodium vivax

4. Plasmodium ovale

The HRP-2 rapid diagnostic test is designed specifically for detecting Plasmodium falciparum due to its expression of the HRP-2 protein.

Therefore, even though the question's stated correct answer is Plasmodium ovale, analyzing the clinical context and diagnostic test result, the most likely causative agent according to the rapid test would be Plasmodium falciparum.