Malaria (P. Vivax) (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test
Short Name: Malaria P. Vivax RNA
Also known as: P. vivax RNA PCR, Malaria vivax qualitative PCR, Plasmodium vivax RNA detection
Malaria (P. Vivax) (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹5,000. Uses Real Time PCR on Whole Blood, Dried Spot samples. Results in Reports are available on the 3rd working day. Email reports within 36 hours, phone support 24 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 primary purpose of this test is to qualitatively detect the presence of Plasmodium vivax RNA in the blood, confirming active infection. It is used for early diagnosis, especially in patients with suggestive symptoms or those returning from endemic areas. The test also helps in differentiating P. vivax from other malaria species, guiding appropriate treatment. Additionally, it can be used for monitoring response to therapy in certain cases, although quantitative tests are preferred for that purpose.
- Test Code
- 6184
- CPT Code
- 87899
- ICD Code
- B53.0
- Price
- ₹5,000
- Sample Type
- Whole Blood, Dried Spot
- Result Time
- Reports are available on the 3rd working day. Email reports within 36 hours, phone support 24 hours.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Real Time PCR
Sample Collection
No special preparation required. Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, especially antimalarial drugs. A consent document must be signed before sample collection.
Method: Venipuncture or finger prick for dried spot
Laboratory Analysis
A blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm. For dried blood spot, a finger prick will be performed. The procedure is quick and minimally invasive.
Report Delivery
You can resume normal activities immediately. No specific aftercare is needed. The sample will be transported to the laboratory for analysis.
Timeline: Reports are available on the 3rd working day. Email reports within 36 hours, phone support 24 hours.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The primary purpose of this test is to qualitatively detect the presence of Plasmodium vivax RNA in the blood, confirming active infection. It is used for early diagnosis, especially in patients with suggestive symptoms or those returning from endemic areas. The test also helps in differentiating P. vivax from other malaria species, guiding appropriate treatment. Additionally, it can be used for monitoring response to therapy in certain cases, although quantitative tests are preferred for that purpose.
How to Prepare
- Ensure the sample is collected in an EDTA vacutainer or on a filter paper card as instructed.
- Label the sample with patient details and collection date/time.
- Transport the sample to the laboratory within 24 hours if possible.
- For dried blood spots, allow the spot to air dry completely before sealing in a plastic bag.
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"Early detection of P. vivax malaria is crucial to prevent severe complications. RNA-based PCR offers high sensitivity, allowing diagnosis even before symptoms appear. This test is particularly useful in endemic regions and for patients with atypical presentations."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Hemolyzed or lipemic samples
- Insufficient sample volume
- Incorrect container or anticoagulant
- Sample not labeled or with incomplete information
Understanding Your Results
Detected
Active P. vivax infection. Treatment with appropriate antimalarial therapy should be initiated promptly. Further species confirmation may be needed if mixed infection is suspected.
Not Detected
No P. vivax RNA detected. However, if symptoms persist, consider other causes or repeat testing after 24-48 hours.
Consult a physician immediately if you experience fever, chills, sweating, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle pain, or fatigue, especially after traveling to malaria-endemic areas. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital to prevent severe disease.
Limitations
- ⚠Qualitative test does not quantify parasite load
- ⚠May not detect other Plasmodium species
- ⚠Requires specialized equipment and trained personnel
- ⚠False negatives possible if sample collected after treatment initiation
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minimal risk of bleeding or bruising at the puncture site
- ●Rare risk of infection
- ●Fainting or dizziness during blood draw
Interfering Factors
- ●Improper sample collection or storage may degrade RNA
- ●Hemolyzed or clotted samples can affect PCR accuracy
- ●Recent antimalarial treatment may reduce RNA levels
- ●Contamination during sample processing can cause false positives
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Malaria (P. Vivax) (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test | Peripheral Blood Smear | Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Malaria (P. Vivax) (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test | Microscopy is the gold standard but requires skilled personnel and may miss low-level parasitemia. RNA PCR is more sensitive and can detect early infection. | RDTs detect antigens and are quick but less sensitive than PCR. RNA PCR can detect infection earlier and is more accurate. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of the Malaria (P. Vivax) RNA Detection Qualitative Test?
How is the test performed?
Do I need to fast before the test?
How long does it take to get results?
Can the test detect malaria before symptoms appear?
Is home sample collection available?
What is the sample type required?
Are there any special instructions before the test?
What does a 'Detected' result mean?
What does a 'Not Detected' result mean?
Can this test detect other malaria species?
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