Which diagnostic test is commonly used to determine the presence of malaria?

The commonly used diagnostic tests for determining the presence of malaria are blood smears and rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs). A blood smear involves taking a sample of blood and examining it under a microscope to identify the malaria parasites through visual assessment of their specific morphology. This method is considered the gold standard for malaria diagnosis due to its ability to detect even low levels of parasitemia and to identify the specific species of Plasmodium causing the infection.

Rapid diagnostic tests, on the other hand, are immunoassays that detect specific malaria antigens or antibodies in the blood, providing a quicker result than microscopy and without the need for extensive laboratory equipment. RDTs are especially useful in areas with limited access to malaria microscopy or when rapid results are necessary for treatment decisions.

In contrast, the other diagnostic tests mentioned are not suitable for diagnosing malaria. A liver biopsy is primarily used for liver disease diagnosis, a skin prick test assesses allergic reactions or specific immunities, and a urine test is routine for evaluating kidney function or detecting infections, neither of which would effectively identify malaria parasites.