Malaria

Test information: The diagnosis of malaria requires the careful examination for 30 minutes of blood films stained at an alkaline pH. An additional test using a monoclonal antibody directed against a Falciparum malaria protein may also be used. The blood films are best made in the laboratory from an FBC sample less than two hours old. The parasites will start to deteriorate after a few hours and a sample over 24 hours old will not be tested.

Specimen Type(s)

• Blood;

Other Acceptable Specimen Type(s)

N/A

Specimen Container - Adult

• Purple Top BD;

Specimen Container - Paediatric

• N/A;

Analytes

• N/A;

Part of a test profile?

No

Volume (min) of sample to be sent to laboratory

4ml

Patient Preparation, Sample Handling and Transport

Blood is ideally collected during fever, however, parasites are found at all stages of the infection and therefore blood films without delay are mandatory in all cases of suspected malaria. However, parasites can be detected even after extended exposure to anticoagulant (exceptionally up to 24 hours) and no sample should be rejected.

Maximum add on time

24 hours post receipt

Units and Reference Ranges / Interpretation

POS/NEG

UKAS number

8869

UKAS accredited test?

Yes

Comments

Testing is available outside normal laboratory hours.

If you have any queries about a test or results interpretation please contact us.