Project Title

Rapid detection of Mycobaterium ulcerans infection by recombinase polymerase amplification

EDCTP Project Call

Career Development Fellowship (CDF)

Project Objectives

This study is to explore the potential of using recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) as a tool for Buruli ulcer diagnosis. RPA has emerged as a novel isothermal technology for use in molecular diagnosis of infectious diseases. This means that it can be carried out at room temperature in unsophisticated laboratories in West Africa close to patients. The key goal is to develop a diagnostic test for the early detection of Buruli ulcer in symptomatic patients with sufficient positive predictive value to put patients on appropriate treatment.

Study Design

Cross-sectional study

Project Summary

There are no primary measures to prevent people from contracting Buruli ulcer, mainly due to poor understanding of its epidemiology. The current control strategy emphasizes early diagnosis and prompt treatment, with the goal of avoiding the complications associated with advanced stages of the disease. There is no diagnostic test for the disease appropriate for use at the primary health care level where most cases are detected and treated. Diagnosis based on clinical signs is unrealiable in inexperienced hands and complicated by infections that have similar presentations. The aim of this study is to develop and evaluate the use of recombinase polymerase amplification assay for the detection of Mycobacterium ulcerans the causative agent of Buruli ulcer at the point of patient care.

Host Organisation

Sites

Results & Outcomes

Current Organisation

Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine

Current Job Title

Research Fellow

Biography