Malaria P. Falciparum & P. Vivax Multiplex Detection Differentiation (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test
Short Name: Malaria PCR (Pf/Pv)
Also known as: Malaria PCR, Plasmodium species detection, Malaria RNA test
Malaria P. Falciparum & P. Vivax Multiplex Detection Differentiation (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹6,800. Uses Real Time RT-PCR on Whole blood, dried spot samples. Results in Reports are delivered within 4 working days. Email reports within 48 hours, phone consultation within 36 hours.. 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 purpose of this test is to qualitatively detect and differentiate between Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax infections in individuals presenting with symptoms suggestive of malaria or with a history of exposure to malaria-endemic areas. The test aids in confirming the diagnosis, guiding species-specific treatment, and monitoring response to therapy.
- Test Code
- 6186
- CPT Code
- 87899
- ICD Code
- B50.9, B51.9
- Price
- ₹6,800
- Sample Type
- Whole blood, dried spot
- Result Time
- Reports are delivered within 4 working days. Email reports within 48 hours, phone consultation within 36 hours.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Real Time RT-PCR
Sample Collection
No special preparation required. Inform your healthcare provider about any antimalarial medications you are taking.
Method: Venipuncture or fingerstick
Laboratory Analysis
A blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm or a fingerstick for dried spot. The procedure is quick and minimally invasive.
Report Delivery
You may resume normal activities immediately. No specific precautions are needed.
Timeline: Reports are delivered within 4 working days. Email reports within 48 hours, phone consultation within 36 hours.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of this test is to qualitatively detect and differentiate between Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax infections in individuals presenting with symptoms suggestive of malaria or with a history of exposure to malaria-endemic areas. The test aids in confirming the diagnosis, guiding species-specific treatment, and monitoring response to therapy.
How to Prepare
- Use EDTA vacutainer for whole blood collection
- For dried blood spot, apply blood onto filter paper and air dry
- Label the sample with patient ID and date
- Transport samples to the laboratory at room temperature or refrigerated
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"Early differentiation of Plasmodium species is critical for targeted therapy. This RNA-based multiplex test offers high sensitivity and specificity, aiding in prompt and accurate management of malaria."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Hemolyzed or lipemic samples
- Insufficient sample volume
- Improperly labeled samples
- Samples received after prolonged delay without proper storage
Understanding Your Results
Active P. falciparum infection. Requires prompt treatment with artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) or other appropriate antimalarials.
Clinical action: Initiate treatment immediately and monitor for severe malaria complications.
Active P. vivax infection. Treatment includes chloroquine (if sensitive) and primaquine for radical cure of liver hypnozoites.
Clinical action: Prescribe appropriate antimalarial and consider G6PD testing before primaquine.
Mixed infection. Treat for both species according to guidelines.
Clinical action: Use combination therapy effective against both species.
No evidence of P. falciparum or P. vivax infection. Malaria is unlikely, but other causes of fever should be investigated.
Clinical action: Consider alternative diagnoses or repeat testing if symptoms persist.
Consult a physician immediately if you experience fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, or other symptoms suggestive of malaria, especially after travel to endemic areas. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital to prevent severe complications.
Limitations
- ⚠This test detects only P. falciparum and P. vivax; other Plasmodium species (e.g., P. ovale, P. malariae, P. knowlesi) are not covered
- ⚠Qualitative test does not quantify parasite load
- ⚠Results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and other laboratory tests
- ⚠False negatives possible if sample collected after initiation of antimalarial therapy
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minimal risk of bleeding or bruising at the puncture site
- ●Dizziness or fainting during blood draw
- ●Infection (rare, if sterile precautions are not followed)
Interfering Factors
- ●Inadequate sample volume or improper storage
- ●Hemolyzed or clotted blood samples
- ●Contamination during sample collection
- ●Recent antimalarial treatment may reduce RNA levels
- ●Very low parasitemia below detection limit
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Malaria P. Falciparum & P. Vivax Multiplex Detection Differentiation (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test | Peripheral Blood Smear (Microscopy) | Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) | Conventional PCR | RNA-based Multiplex RT-PCR (this test) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Malaria P. Falciparum & P. Vivax Multiplex Detection Differentiation (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of the Malaria Pf/Pv Multiplex RNA Detection Test?
What is the sample type required for this test?
Do I need to fast before the test?
How long does it take to get results?
Can this test differentiate between P. falciparum and P. vivax?
Is home sample collection available?
What is the principle behind this test?
Can this test detect other Plasmodium species?
Is this test suitable for children?
What should I do if my result is positive?
Are there any risks associated with the blood draw?
How accurate is this test?
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