The application of spectroscopy techniques for diagnosis of malaria parasites and arboviruses and surveillance of mosquito vectors: A systematic review and critical appraisal of evidence

Abstract

The potential of RS as a surveillance tool for malaria and arbovirus vectors and MIRS for the diagnosis and surveillance of arboviruses is yet to be assessed. NIRS capacity as a surveillance tool for malaria and arbovirus vectors should be validated under field conditions, and its potential as a diagnostic tool for malaria and arboviruses needs to be evaluated. It is recommended that all 3 techniques evaluated simultaneously using multiple machine learning techniques in multiple epidemiological settings to determine the most accurate technique for each application. Prior to their field application, a standardised protocol for spectra collection and data analysis should be developed. This will harmonise their application in multiple field settings allowing easy and faster integration into existing disease control platforms. Ultimately, development of rapid and cost-effective point-of-care diagnostic tools for malaria and arboviruses based on spectroscopy techniques may help combat current and future outbreaks of these infectious diseases.

Fig 1. An example of an averaged NIRS raw spectra collected from the heads and thoraces of ZIKV-infected (red) and uninfected (blue) Ae. aegypti mosquitoes. Adapted from Fernandes and colleagues [90].

Fig 2. An example of an averaged MIRS spectra from dried blood infected with malaria parasites (red spectrum) and uninfected blood (blue spectrum).

Adapted from Mwanga and colleagues [70].

Fig 3. Search and selection process based on PRISMA framework.

A total of 58 peer-reviewed articles from 2009 to 2021 (January) were reviewed.

Fig 4. The number of articles included in this literature review that are related to RS, MIRS, and NIRS for the diagnosis and surveillance of malaria and arboviruses classified by year of publication.