Malaria is caused by a parasite called Plasmodium, which is transmitted via the bites of infected mosquitoes. The parasites multiply in the liver, and then infect red blood cells. Ideally, blood should be drawn in the middle of the paroxysm of chills and fever, because the greatest number of parasites is likely to be present in the blood at this time. Since paroxysms cannot always be predicted, smears should be taken at intervals of 6 to 18 hours for three successive days. Each smear should be examined immediately. Negative smears for three consecutive days during symptoms are consistent with the absence of malarial infection.
Samples should be drawn immediately during the attack of fever, otherwise parasites may not be found. Specimen Preparation Transport 5 mL whole blood (Min: 1 mL). Extended exposure to EDTA anticoagulants can result in altered parasite morphology. For best results, send five (5) thin blood smears (unstained, unfixed) AND five (5) thick smears (unstained, unfixed) in addition to whole blood. Thin and thick blood smears should be prepared immediately or within 1 hour after collection. 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.
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