What are the common tests used for malaria diagnosis?

The common tests used for malaria diagnosis include blood smear microscopy, rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs), and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Blood smear microscopy involves examining blood samples under a microscope for the presence of malaria parasites. RDTs provide quick results by detecting specific malaria antigens in the blood. PCR amplifies and detects malaria DNA to confirm the presence of the infection with high sensitivity.