Rapid Malaria/Babesia Smear, Varies
Use
This test is used for the rapid and accurate detection and species identification of Plasmodium and to detect Babesia, trypanosomes, and some species of microfilariae. It is an essential tool for confirming a presumptive diagnosis of malaria, determining the infecting Plasmodium species, and calculating the percentage of parasitemia, which can help predict prognosis and monitor treatment response. The test is also applicable for the detection of Trypanosoma and filariae species.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
Microscopy of Giemsa-stained blood films may not achieve optimal sensitivity; thick smears must be examined for best results. The degree of parasitemia can rapidly change, so calculations are most accurate immediately post-draw. Specimen aging or improper transport may degrade malaria parasites, making accurate parasitemia calculations difficult or impossible.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 51714-4 - Gie Stn Bld
- 51714-4 - Gie Stn Bld
Result Turnaround Time
1-2 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Whole Blood
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Lavender top (EDTA)
Collection Instructions
Invert several times to mix blood. Send whole blood specimen in original tube. Do not aliquot.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis, Gross lipemia