Malaria/Babesia/Other Blood Parasites
Also known as: Filariasis, Blood, Babesia
Use
This test is intended for the microscopic identification of malaria, Babesia, and other blood parasites in peripheral blood, supporting diagnosis in febrile patients and guiding appropriate treatment and prognosis. Travel history and anti‑malarial agent exposure should be documented to aid interpretation.
Special Instructions
Collection requires at least two thick and two thin blood smears prepared from capillary (finger) source, and one EDTA (lavender‑top) whole blood tube. Smears must be on separate slides with a frosted end. Slides and blood should be collected during febrile episodes and travel history (country visited and dates) must be noted on the requisition.
Limitations
One negative smear observation does not rule out blood parasites. Sensitivity varies with timing relative to febrile state; repeat smears every 6 hours for up to 36 hours may be needed. Morphologic preservation is critical—slides deteriorate if not prepared and transported properly.
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 17784-0
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Tissue
Volume
Not provided
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Collection Instructions
At least 2 thick (1 thick minimum) and 2 thin (1 thin minimum) smears prepared from capillary source (finger). Smears on two separate glass slides with frosted ends.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Room temperature unacceptable for blood; smears should be dry and stored at room temperature. Whole blood refrigerated (2‑8 °C) up to 15 days. |
| Refrigerated | 15 days |