Rapid Antigen Detection Test for Diagnosis of Post–kala-azar Dermal Leishmaniasis: Application of CL Detect Rapid Test for Active Case Detection in the Endemic Area

Post-kala-azar dermal leishmaniasis (PKDL) is a skin condition that occurs in a small percentage of people who have been cured of visceral leishmaniasis (VL), and it contributes to transmission of VL. The rK39 rapid test cannot decisively diagnose PKDL due to the presence of antileishmanial antibodies from past VL episodes. The CL Detect Rapid Test, an in vitro diagnostic test that detects Leishmania antigen peroxidoxin, was assessed for diagnosing PKDL. The CL Detect Rapid Test had 73.3% sensitivity and 100% specificity in the study. The test can be used as a primary screening tool to monitor PKDL in endemic regions and identify active Leishmania infection.