A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z #

Blood Parasite Screen (Malarial)

Message
Blood samples must be taken before any antimalarial drugs are used to ensure demonstration of organisms if the patient does have malaria. Smear reviewed for Malaria, Babesia, Trypanosoma, and Filaria parasites


Test Code
MAL


Preferred Specimen
3.0 mL EDTA Whole Blood (Lavender top)


Instructions
"Blood collection should be performed immediately upon first suspicion of malaria. Successive films at 6, 12, or 24 hours may be necessary.
Testing Frequency: 24/7"


Transport Temperature
STAT to Lab


Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)
Stability: Less than one hour/unless smears are directly made


Methodology
Direct smear review. All positive parasites are sent to the state (NH) Lab for final ID.



The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.