Malaria and Blood Parasites

Patient Preparation Blood drawn 1 to 2 hours prior to expected chill will enhance recovery of malarial parasites by the laboratory

Preferred Specimen(s) 2-3 air-dried blood smears (1 thick and 1-2 thin) and a whole blood EDTA (lavender-top) tube

Transport Container Slides in slide holders and an EDTA (lavender-top) tube

Transport Temperature Room temperature

Reject Criteria

Hemolysis
Clotted

Methodology Microscopic Examination

Clinical Significance The identification of malarial parasites and other blood parasites is used to determine treatment and prognosis. One negative observation cannot rule out blood parasites. Babesia and other blood parasites are noted and reported.