Malaria Species Identification by PCR
Also known as: MALARIAPCR
Use
This test is designed for the species identification of microscopically confirmed malaria infections. It is especially useful in situations of coinfections with multiple Plasmodium species, where different parasite burdens may result in the failure to identify one or more species. Furthermore, PCR is recommended by the CDC as the most sensitive test for detecting asymptomatic or subclinical malaria in refuges, specifically from sub-Saharan Africa where they have not received predeparture therapy.
Special Instructions
This test is not intended as a first-line test for diagnosing acute symptomatic malaria. Instead, it should be used under CDC recommendations for specific screening purposes or when microscopic confirmation is already obtained. Not suitable for monitoring treatment response or parasite clearance.
Limitations
A positive result does not necessarily indicate visible parasites due to the qualitative nature of the test. Negative results do not rule out PCR inhibitors or the existence of nucleic acid that is below the level of detection. It is also not intended for treatment monitoring or assessment of parasite clearance.
New York Approved
Methodology
PCR-based (PCR)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 41447-4
- 70568-1
- 41450-8
- 41448-2
- 41449-0
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Whole Blood
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Lavender (EDTA) or pink (K2EDTA)
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated.
Causes for Rejection
Heparinized specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 24 hours |
| Refrigerated | 1 week |
| Frozen | 1 week |
Other tests from different labs that may be relevant