MalariaPlas

Malaria (Plasmodium spp.) – PCR 

Laboratory Fee Schedule

Procedure:  MMB0030A

CPT: 87798

 

Malaria (Plasmodium spp.) – PCR

Synonym(s): P. falciparum, P. vivax, P. ovale, P. malariae, malaria
Requisition Form G-2B
Test Description Detection of low-level parasitemia below the detection of blood-smear examination for the four most common Plasmodium spp. that cause malaria in humans.
Pre-Approval Needed N/A
Supplemental Information Required N/A
Supplemental Form(s) N/A  
Performed on Specimens from (sources) Human
Sample/Specimen Type for Testing

Blood samples, fresh, cold or frozen, or treated (See “Transport Medium”)

Minimum Volume/Size Required

>= 200 µL

Storage/Preservation Prior to Shipping

Samples processed and submitted by Medical Parasitology Team

Transport Medium
  • Citrate, heparin, or EDTA
  • Typical sample is collected in a purple top vacutainer.
Specimen Labeling
  • Two patient-specific identifiers required (e.g., patient full name, date of birth, medical record number
  • Identifiers on specimen must exactly match submission form.
Shipping and Specimen Handling Requirements
  • Ship according to Dangerous Goods Regulations, IATA, and/or CFR 49.
  • For PCR testing only, sample may be maintained at ambient temperature, refrigerated, or frozen
  • For blood smear/slide test, sample must be refrigerated and not frozen.
Method

Real-time PCR

Turn-around Time 48 business hours from receipt
Interferences/Limitations

N/A

Common Causes for Rejection
  • Insufficient specimen and/or
  • Failure to meet submission/shipping guidelines.
  • Dried blood specimen
Additional Information PCR test may be paired with blood smear/slide test