The benefits of innovative diagnostic tools for neglected tropical diseases: A scoping review
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Vivian Ukamaka Nwokedi 1 * , Modinat Aina Abayomi 2 , Ahmad Onikoko Abdulgafar 3 , Ndubisi Ubaka Edebeatu 4 , Ogechi Njoku 5
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1 Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Benin, Benin City, NIGERIA2 Department of Biology, Boston College, Boston, MA, USA3 School of Medical Laboratory Science, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, Sokoto State, NIGERIA4 Department of Medicine, Texila American University, Georgetown, GUYANA5 Department of Laboratory, AIDS Healthcare Foundation, Asuir, Benue State, NIGERIA* Corresponding Author

Abstract

Vulnerable populations all around the world, especially those in low-resource settings, continue to suffer the consequences of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). Methods of diagnosis that are considered traditional are frequently insufficient when it comes to the successful identification and management of NTDs related issues. This study examines how novel diagnostic technologies improve diagnosis accuracy, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness for NTD management. In carrying out this review, a scoping review was adopted using PubMed and grey literature sources. The search yielded 336 articles, of which 23 were selected through title and abstract screening. After reviewing the complete text, 9 studies met the eligibility criteria for inclusion. New diagnostic techniques like rK39 and rK28 NTDs, molecular diagnostics, and point-of-care testing showed better sensitivity, specificity, and accessibility than older methods. Studies also showed that they might be used in the field to improve disease surveillance and treatment uptake, especially for visceral leishmaniasis, schistosomiasis, and lymphatic filariasis. The use of innovative diagnostic technologies is very helpful for controlling NTDs because they make it easier to get accurate diagnoses in places where resources are limited. Subsequent study must concentrate on the expansion of these technologies, the resolution of infrastructural constraints, and the investigation of their contribution to global efforts in the eradication of NTDs.

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This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Article Type: Review Article

J CONTEMP STUD EPIDEMIOL PUBLIC HEALTH, Volume 7, Issue 1, 2026, Article No: ep26002

https://doi.org/10.29333/jconseph/17854

Publication date: 03 Feb 2026

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