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Test Code LAB0205781 Malaria Smear

Methodology

Giemsa Stain
Thick and thin Giemsa-stained malaria smears are not only useful for the rapid and accurate detection and species identification of Plasmodium, but also can be used to detect Babesia, trypanosomes, and some species of microfilariae.
Note: If positive smear, an EDTA specimen will be referred to Minnesota Department  for speciation by PCR (test code CSBH, 0208512.

Performing Laboratory

CentraCare Laboratory Services

Specimen Requirements

Specimen Type: Fingerstick blood and EDTA lavender top tube.

Container/Tube: Slides, clean, grease free in plastic slide container

Specimen Volume: Several slides

Collection Instructions:

1. Several thin and thick blood films made from fingerstick blood. There should be no contact with any type of anticoagulant.

2. Using a lead pencil, label frosted end of slides with patient’s name (first and last) and specimen type prior to obtaining smear.

3. Thin Blood Films:

a. Prepare with a “feathered edge”; should be no more than a single cell thick.

b. Allow films to thoroughly air dry and then fix by briefly immersing it in either absolute or 95% methyl alcohol. Allow to air dry.

4. Thick Blood Films:
a. Place a large drop of blood (preferably from a fingerstick) on a slide.

b. Using a corner of a second slide, spread drop by literally scratching carrier slide to make blood adhere.

c. Do not fix; air dry only.

5. Label plastic slide container with patient’s name (first and last), medical record number, and date and actual time of collection.

Specimen Transport Temperature

Ambient/Refrigerated NO/Frozen NO

Reference Values

Negative

Critical value (automatic call-back): all positives

If positive, specimen will be referred to Minnesota Department of Health for confirmation and identification.

Day(s) Test Set Up

Monday through Sunday

Test Classification and CPT Coding

87207