Sign in →

Test Code Sm for M/org Smear for Microorganisms

Aliases

Malaria Smear / Microfilaria Smear/ Microorganism Smear/ PB Organisms Smear

Useful For

A variety of parasite species including both protozoans and helminths are found in human blood as some stage in their life cycle. These can include malaria, trypanosomes, babesias and the microfilariae.

Patient Preparation

Clean site of puncture with 70% alcohol. Rub with sterile gauze. Patient should have a fever at the time of collection

Collection Method

Venous draw

Minimum Volume

3 mL

Container

Purple (EDTA)

Reference or Target Ranges

No organisms seen

Critical Value

Positive for blood borne parasites

Reasons for Rejection

Hemolysis Threshold
N/A
Icterus Threshold
N/A
Lipemia Threshold
N/A
Other
QNS, Clotted, Improperly collected

Specimen Stability

Ambient
24 hours
Refrigerated (4°C to 8°C)
24 hours
Frozen(-70°C to 0°C)
N/A

Performance Information

Days and Time Performed
Malarial Staining performed Monday – Friday during regular hours (8am – 4pm). Screened peripheral smears performed 24/7.
Expected Turn Around Time
2 – 7 days
Stat Availabilty
Yes, Scans can be performed STAT on peripheral smears.
Performing Bench
Hematology Manual Bench
Methodology/Method Description
Thick and thin slides are prepared. Initial screening can be performed on a peripheral blood smear. All slides are sent to the pathologist for reviewm if positive for malaria, %Parasitemia is performed and reviewed by the pathologist. Slides positive for organisms are sent to the Missouri Department of Health for confirmation.

Reflex Testing

Positive results are sent to State Lab for Confirmation

Acceptable Specimens

EDTA Whole Blood, BD EDTA MAP tube

CPT Codes

87207, 87015