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.