Evaluating the Diagnostic Accuracy of Rapid Malaria Tests in Pediatric Patients: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

Background Malaria remains one of the most significant public health challenges, particularly in pediatric populations in developing countries. Rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) have been widely adopted due to their ease of use and quick results, but their diagnostic accuracy, compared to microscopy, the gold standard, remains a topic of interest. Early and accurate detection of malaria is crucial in reducing complications and mortality in children, who are especially vulnerable to delayed or inaccurate diagnoses.