Journal Article > Research

Cryptococcal antigen screening by lay cadres using a rapid test at the point of care: A feasibility study in rural Lesotho

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Abstract
Cryptococcal meningitis is one of the leading causes of death among people with HIV in Africa, primarily due to delayed presentation, poor availability and high cost of treatment. Routine cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) screening of patients with a CD4 count less than 100 cells/mm3, followed by pre-emptive therapy if positive, might reduce mortality in high prevalence settings. Using the cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) lateral flow assay (LFA), screening is possible at the point of care (POC). However, critical shortages of health staff may limit adoption. This study investigates the feasibility of lay counsellors conducting CrAg LFA screening in rural primary care clinics in Lesotho.
Countries
Published Date
06-Sep-2017
PubMed ID
28877182
Languages
English
Journal
PLOS One
Volume / Issue / Pages
Volume 12, Issue 9
Issue Date
06-Sep-2017
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