Parasite Examination (Malaria) Blood Test

What is the purpose of this test?

Order this Parasite Examination (Malaria) Blood Test to help detect the malaria parasite in the blood. Malaria is a severe infection induced by a parasite. Parasites are tiny organisms that survive by feeding off nutrients from the body of a host organism. After being bitten by infected mosquitos, the parasites that cause malaria are passed on to an individual. Initially, malaria symptoms may be similar to cold or flu symptoms. However, if left untreated, malaria can develop into a life-threatening condition.

Although malaria is not a contagious disease like a cold or flu, it can be spread from individual to individual by mosquitos. For example, if a mosquito bites an infected individual, it will pass on the parasite to anyone it bites afterward. Once bitten by the infected mosquito, the parasites will travel into the bloodstream. The parasites will then multiply inside the red blood cells and cause illness. Therefore, this Parasite Examination (Malaria) Blood Test detects indications of malaria infection in the blood.

Malaria is a disease most common in tropical and subtropical regions, with millions of people becoming infected and hundreds of thousands dying annually. Despite malaria being found in more than 87 countries, the country with the most infection and fatality rates is Africa. Malaria is a rare disease in the United States. But U.S. citizens who travel to Africa and other tropical countries have a higher risk of getting infected.

When should I order a Malaria Blood Test?

Individuals may order this Parasite Examination (Malaria) Blood Test if they are experiencing symptoms associated with a malaria infection. Common signs or symptoms of malaria infection may include the following:

• Fever
• Chills
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Body aches
• Nausea and vomiting
• High fever
• Bloody stools
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Seizures
• Mental confusion