Malaria, Molecular Detection, PCR, Varies
Use
The Malaria, Molecular Detection, PCR test is primarily used to detect Plasmodium DNA and identify the infecting species. It serves as an adjunct to conventional microscopy of Giemsa-stained films, especially in cases of low parasitemia or suboptimal parasite morphology. It allows for the detection and confirmatory identification of the Plasmodium species: Plasmodium falciparum, Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium ovale, Plasmodium malariae, and Plasmodium knowlesi. It should not be used to screen asymptomatic patients but is useful for confirmation of a presumptive malaria diagnosis where parasite morphology is unclear.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
This test is qualitative and does not include a blood smear examination or calculation of parasitemia. It has limitations in detecting very low parasitemias, and in some cases, it may not differentiate mixed infections or closely related species such as Plasmodium ovale and Plasmodium vivax. The test does not distinguish between residual nucleic acid from treated infections and active parasitemias. It is not suitable for detecting other blood parasites like Babesia or Trypanosoma species. Care must be taken as transportation conditions and prior treatment can affect test accuracy.
New York Approved
Methodology
PCR-based (Real-Time PCR)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 47260-5 - Plasmodium DNA Bld NAA+probe
- 47260-5 - Plasmodium DNA Bld NAA+probe
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Whole Blood
Volume
4 mL
Minimum Volume
1 mL
Container
Lavender top (EDTA)
Collection Instructions
Invert several times to mix blood. Send specimen in original tube. Do not aliquot.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis, Gross lipemia
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 7 days |