Specimen Information

*While a microtainer is an optional tube type in rare circumstances, it is not recommended.

**A Fresh Specimen is critical. It is recommended slides are made as soon as possible (<1 hour post-collection), sensitivity of this assay decreases if slides are made >4-6 hours post collection.  It is ESSENTIAL that slides be made within 24 hours of specimen collection, the accuracy of the result will be compromised beyond that time. 

Prepare 3 thin film slides and 2 thick smears from specimen. Send slides along with original specimen. Include patient’s travel history when available. Blood films are examined for Malaria, Trypanosomes, Microfilaria, and Babesia.

Instructions for preparation of thin and thick blood smears:

1. Slides must be clean and grease-free.

2. Prepare 3 thin blood films as follows:

     a. Prepare 3 thin smears with either the mini prep-slide machine OR by manually dropping and spreading (with another clean slide) a thin film with a "feathered edge" that is no more than a single cell thick.

     b. Allow the film to thoroughly air dry and then fix by briefly immersing in either absolute or 95% methyl alcohol (Methanol).

     c. Allow to air dry after fixation.

     d. Place the slides in a transport container.

3. Prepare 2 thick blood smears as follows:

     a. Place a large drop of blood (approximately the size of a dime) on a slide.

     b. Using a corner of a second slide, spread the drop in a circular motion while applying firm pressure to literally scratch the blood onto the carrier slide. This technique allows the blood to dry quickly and adhere well to the slide. Use approximately 20 circular sweeps with the second slide. The drop of blood should be about the size of a quarter when finished.

     c. Do not fix. Air dry thoroughly (approximately 45 minutes) before placing in transport container.