Home
HelpTest Code LAB2074 Parasites Smear
Additional Codes
| Test Name in EPIC | EPIC Test Code | Mnemonic |
|---|---|---|
| SMEAR PARASITES | LAB2074 | MALAR |
Useful For/Utility
Detection of blood parasite infections including malaria, babesia, trypanosomes, and microfilaria. Test is a qualitaitive screening for blood parasites. If blood parasite is present, percent parasitemia will be provided.
Methodology
Microscopic Examination of Stained Slides
Test Algorithm
Specimens requiring speciation of detected parasite are referred to Mayo Medical Laboratories.
Clinical Information
Test is performed by examining Giemsa-stained thick and thin blood films. Examination of the thin film allows for calculation of percent parasitemia for malaria or babesia, which can be used to predict prognosis and monitor response to treatment for patients with malaria and babesiosis. The percentage parasitemia represents the percentage of infected red blood cells. This is calculated from representative microscopic fields on the thin blood film.
Specimen Requirements
Slides and whole blood are required.
Slides must be made within one hour of draw. Stain within 72 hours.
Specimen Type: Whole blood
Container/Tube: Lavender top (EDTA)
Specimen Volume: 1 mL
Specimen Minimum Volume: 0.2 mL
Collection Instructions: Draw blood just prior to expected chills or shortly after onset.
Specimen Type: Thin blood smears
Container/Tube: Slide container
Specimen Volume: 4 Slides
Collection Instructions:
1. Smear slides with a “feathered edge”; should be no more than a single cell thick.
2. Allow smears to thoroughly air dry.
Collection Instructions: Use only clean, grease-free slides.
Additional Information: See Malaria Smears in Special Instructions for examples of properly made slides.
Specimen Type: Thick blood smears
Container/Tube: Slide container
Specimen Volume: 4 Slides
Collection Instructions:
1. Using a corner of another slide, spread drop into a dime-sized area by literally scratching carrier slides to make blood adhere.
2. Allow smears to thoroughly air dry for at least 8 hours.
Additional Information: See Malaria Smears in Special Instructions for examples of properly made slides.
Specimen Transport Temperature
Ambient/Refrigerate NO/Frozen NO
Day(s) Test Set Up
Monday through Friday (day shift only)
Performing Laboratory
Special Hematology-
SMDC Clinical Lab
Test Classification and CPT Coding
87207
Reference Values
None seen