A novel real-time PCR assay for the detection of Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax malaria in low parasitized individuals

► The rapid and accurate diagnosis of Plasmodium spp. is essential for the effective control of malaria. ► We developed a novel pair of TaqMan probe-based real-time PCR assay for the detection of Plasmodium falciparum and P. vivax malaria in low parasitized individuals. ► Plasmodium was detected successfully in all 112 clinically suspected malaria patients, including 32 individuals with low parasitemia (1-100 parasites/μl). ► The sensitivity threshold was 0.2 parasites/μl. ► This may be a useful method for detecting malaria parasites in endemic areas.