| Methodology: |
Qualitative Immunochromatography/Stain
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| Performed: |
Sun-Sat
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| Reported: |
Within 2 days
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| Specimen Required: |
Collect: Lavender (EDTA) or pink (K2EDTA).
Specimen Preparation: Transport 5 mL whole blood (Min: 1 mL) AND five (5) thin blood smears (unstained, unfixed) AND five (5) thick smears (unstained, unfixed). Thin and thick
blood smears should be prepared immediately or within 1 hour after collection. Extended exposure to EDTA anticoagulants can result in altered parasite
morphology. Thin smears are made as per routine hematology differentials. Thick smears are made by dropping 10 to 20 µL of blood onto a slide and
spreading it into a dime-sized area with a glass, wooden, or plastic applicator.
For instructions on preparation of thick and thin smears, see http://www.dpd.cdc.gov/dpdx/HTML/DiagnosticProcedures.htm. Label and transport slides in
slide holders. Specimen must be received within 24 hours of collection.
Storage/Transport Temperature: Room temperature.
Remarks: Rapid diagnosis of malaria is critical for appropriate patient management. Specimens for Malaria and Babesia are for confirmation only from clients outside of the immediate Salt Lake City, Utah area. Travel history required.
Unacceptable Conditions: Whole blood in anticoagulants other than EDTA or K2EDTA.
Stability (collection to initiation of testing): Whole blood: Ambient: 24 hours; Refrigerated: Unacceptable; Frozen: Unacceptable.
Slides: Ambient: 1 week; Refrigerated: Unacceptable; Frozen: Unacceptable
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