Malaria Multiplex (P. Falciparum, P. Vivax, P. Ovale, and P. Malariae) Multiplex Detection & Differentiation (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test
Short Name: Malaria Multiplex RNA Detection
Also known as: Malaria PCR Panel, Plasmodium Species Differentiation Test, Malaria RNA Detection Test
Malaria Multiplex (P. Falciparum, P. Vivax, P. Ovale, and P. Malariae) Multiplex Detection & Differentiation (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹7,650. Uses Real Time RT-PCR on Whole blood, dried spot samples. Results in Results are typically available within 4 working days after the sample reaches the laboratory. Reports will be sent via email and can be accessed on the online portal.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal
Consultant Microbiologist · Reg: 27670
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The primary purpose of this test is to detect the presence of Plasmodium species and identify which specific species is causing the infection. This differentiation is clinically important because treatment protocols differ: P. falciparum infections require urgent and often more aggressive therapy due to the risk of severe malaria, while P. vivax and P. ovale require treatment for hypnozoites to prevent relapse. The test also aids in epidemiological surveillance and helps in managing mixed infections.
- Test Code
- 6188
- CPT Code
- 87899
- ICD Code
- B50-B54
- Price
- ₹7,650
- Sample Type
- Whole blood, dried spot
- Result Time
- Results are typically available within 4 working days after the sample reaches the laboratory. Reports will be sent via email and can be accessed on the online portal.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Real Time RT-PCR
Sample Collection
No special preparation required. However, it is important to inform the healthcare provider about any antimalarial medications taken in the past few weeks. A consent document must be signed, and any relevant clinical history should be provided.
Method: Venipuncture or fingerstick
Laboratory Analysis
A blood sample will be collected by a trained phlebotomist. For dried blood spot, a fingerstick may be used. The procedure is quick and minimally invasive.
Report Delivery
No specific precautions are needed after sample collection. You can resume normal activities immediately. The sample will be transported to the laboratory for analysis.
Timeline: Results are typically available within 4 working days after the sample reaches the laboratory. Reports will be sent via email and can be accessed on the online portal.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The primary purpose of this test is to detect the presence of Plasmodium species and identify which specific species is causing the infection. This differentiation is clinically important because treatment protocols differ: P. falciparum infections require urgent and often more aggressive therapy due to the risk of severe malaria, while P. vivax and P. ovale require treatment for hypnozoites to prevent relapse. The test also aids in epidemiological surveillance and helps in managing mixed infections.
How to Prepare
- Use EDTA tube for whole blood collection
- For dried blood spot, use filter paper card and allow to air dry
- Label the sample with patient identification
- Transport sample to laboratory within 24 hours if refrigerated
- Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"Malaria remains a major public health challenge in India. Accurate species identification is critical for selecting appropriate antimalarial therapy, especially due to the risk of severe disease with P. falciparum. This multiplex RNA detection test offers high sensitivity and specificity, enabling timely and targeted treatment."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Hemolyzed or clotted sample
- Insufficient sample volume
- Improper labeling
- Sample received after prolonged delay without proper storage
Understanding Your Results
Active infection with Plasmodium falciparum. Requires urgent treatment with appropriate antimalarial therapy, as P. falciparum can cause severe malaria.
Active infection with Plasmodium vivax. Treatment should include a course of primaquine to eliminate hypnozoites and prevent relapse.
Active infection with Plasmodium ovale. Similar to P. vivax, requires treatment for hypnozoites to prevent relapse.
Active infection with Plasmodium malariae. Usually causes milder disease but can persist for years if untreated.
No evidence of malaria infection. However, if clinical suspicion remains high, consider repeat testing or alternative diagnostic methods.
If you experience symptoms such as high fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, or fatigue, especially after traveling to a malaria-endemic area, consult a healthcare provider immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent severe complications.
Limitations
- ⚠Qualitative test does not quantify parasite load
- ⚠May not detect very low levels of parasitemia below the limit of detection
- ⚠Cannot distinguish between active infection and recent treated infection if RNA persists
- ⚠Requires specialized laboratory equipment and trained personnel
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minimal risk of bleeding or bruising at the puncture site
- ●Rare risk of infection at the puncture site
- ●Fainting or dizziness during blood draw
Interfering Factors
- ●Improper sample collection or storage
- ●Hemolysis of blood sample
- ●Contamination during sample processing
- ●Prior antimalarial treatment may reduce parasite RNA levels
- ●Very low parasitemia may lead to false negatives
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Malaria Multiplex (P. Falciparum, P. Vivax, P. Ovale, and P. Malariae) Multiplex Detection & Differentiation (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test | Microscopy (Peripheral Smear) | Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) | Conventional PCR | Malaria Multiplex RNA Detection (This Test) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Malaria Multiplex (P. Falciparum, P. Vivax, P. Ovale, and P. Malariae) Multiplex Detection & Differentiation (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of the Malaria Multiplex RNA Detection Test?
How is this test different from a regular malaria blood test?
Do I need to fast before the test?
What sample is needed for the test?
How long does it take to get results?
Can this test detect all four malaria species?
Is home sample collection available?
What does a 'Detected' result mean?
Can I take antimalarial medication before the test?
Is this test covered by insurance?
What is the sensitivity of this test?
Are there any risks associated with the blood draw?
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