Simultaneous diagnosis of five skin-related neglected tropical diseases (skin NTDs)
- Ghana, Cameroon, Benin, Côte d'Ivoire, Sudan Country
- 282.009,80 € Investment
- 2023-26 Length
The Challenge
We have joined forces with American Leprosy Missions (ALM), Raoul Follereau Foundation (FRF) and Biomeme.
This research project seeks to develop a single PCR test that can diagnose five skin NTDs: Buruli ulcer, leprosy, mycetoma, leishmaniasis and yaws.
The solution
The aim of this research project is to determine whether Biomeme’s PCR molecular diagnostic tool can effectively detect pathogenic nucleic acids from five ETD-MC in clinical and field settings.
Impact
This research project offers an excellent opportunity to gather scientific evidence for a potential improvement in the integrated diagnosis of 5 BDD-CM and, therefore, in the improvement of the health status of people affected by it.
If successful and scientifically endorsed by the WHO, it could be a major breakthrough in the fight against skin-associated TCDs (SCD), contributing to the targets set by the WHO in its new roadmap 2021-2030 for the control, elimination and eradication of these diseases.
Related projects
Learn about other projects where we fight Neglected Tropical Diseases
A clinical trial to reduce the treatment time for the Buruli ulcer by half
After decades combatting the Buruli ulcer, which affects thousands of people in over 33 countries, we are still unaware of its exact mode of transmission. We know it is related to environments with stagnant and unsafe water.
Strengthening the African network of laboratories for Buruli ulcer research
There are currently no unified protocols for detecting Buruli ulcer. Although the WHO sets guidelines for the control of NTDs, many laboratories in Africa do not have standardised protocols for sample collection and subsequent screening and diagnosis of these diseases.
A New Early Detection System for Buruli Ulcer
This will increase early detection, reducing the number of severe cases of the disease, and in turn will lower expenses for patients and their families as there will be fewer severe cases requiring intensive care.
Better Mental Health for People with NTDs in Nigeria as a Result of Integrated Care
This initiative will support the Nigerian government and other civil society organisations to develop and pilot-test a comprehensive intervention to integrate mental health and NTDs.
An Initiative to Find Innovative Interventions for the Comprehensive Treatment of NTDs
These lessons learnt in Liberia can also be applied to other settings in the region, thereby contributing to a regional exchange of scientific knowledge. Finally, the findings could also be adopted into public health policies in Liberia.
Support for Leprosy Research Teams Via the Leprosy Research Initiative (LRI)
These lessons learnt in Liberia can also be applied to other settings in the region, thereby contributing to a regional exchange of scientific knowledge. Finally, the findings could also be adopted into public health policies in Liberia.
Creating Scientific Research Opportunities on NTDs for Young Professionals from Countries Where these Diseases Are Endemic
Encouraging young researchers in countries where skin NTDs are endemic will contribute to the development of a new generation of scientists who will be better able to understand and manage the challenges of these diseases.
Reducing Stigma and Disabilities
Via this research project we seek to guarantee the Right to Health of people with disabilities, with a special focus on those with NTDs in Côte d’Ivoire and Benin.
A New Clinical Study to Improve the Treatment of Leprosy and Prevent its Harmful Side Effects
Via this study, we will enhance capacity-building, strengthen active integrated case detection, as well as enable early detection and accurate diagnoses.
