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HelpTest 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)
Acceptable Specimens
EDTA Whole Blood, BD EDTA MAP tube
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. |
CPT Codes
87207, 87015
Reflex Testing
Positive results are sent to State Lab for Confirmation