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Malaria Smear

Test Code
MALAR


Preferred Specimen
5 mL whole blood (1.0 minimum)


Instructions
Test includes examination of thick and thin smears. Specimen should be drawn immediately before a fever spike is anticipated. One negative result does not rule out the possibility of parasite infestation due to cyclical nature of infection. If Protozoal, Filarial or Trypansomial infection is suspected, test should be performed at least three times with samples obtained at different times in the febrile cycle. Identification to species level may require multiple specimens.


Transport Container
Lavender Tube


Transport Temperature
Room Temperature


Specimen Stability
Make thin and thin smears and let air dry if specimen can not be delivered to the lab immediately.




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.