Plasmodium Species Quantitative Test
Short Name: Plasmodium Quantitative
Also known as: Malaria PCR Quantitative, Plasmodium species detection and quantification
Plasmodium Species Quantitative Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹6,800. Uses Real Time RT-PCR on Whole blood, dried spot samples. Results in Results are typically available within 4 working days. You will receive an email notification once the report is ready.. 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 the Plasmodium Species Quantitative Test is to confirm the presence of Plasmodium infection, identify the specific species responsible, and quantify the parasite load. This information is crucial for selecting the appropriate antimalarial therapy, predicting disease severity, and monitoring the patient's response to treatment. Unlike rapid diagnostic tests or blood smears, PCR-based testing offers higher sensitivity and can detect low-level parasitemia, making it especially valuable in cases of mixed infections or when microscopy results are inconclusive.
- Test Code
- 6223
- CPT Code
- 87899
- ICD Code
- B50-B54
- Price
- ₹6,800
- Sample Type
- Whole blood, dried spot
- Result Time
- Results are typically available within 4 working days. You will receive an email notification once the report is ready.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Real Time RT-PCR
Sample Collection
No special preparation is required. However, it is important to inform your healthcare provider about any antimalarial medications you have taken recently, as this may affect test results.
Method: Venipuncture or fingerstick for dried spot
Laboratory Analysis
A blood sample will be collected by a trained phlebotomist. For dried blood spot, a fingerstick will be performed. The procedure is quick and minimally invasive.
Report Delivery
You may resume normal activities immediately. There are no restrictions after the test. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you once available.
Timeline: Results are typically available within 4 working days. You will receive an email notification once the report is ready.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of the Plasmodium Species Quantitative Test is to confirm the presence of Plasmodium infection, identify the specific species responsible, and quantify the parasite load. This information is crucial for selecting the appropriate antimalarial therapy, predicting disease severity, and monitoring the patient's response to treatment. Unlike rapid diagnostic tests or blood smears, PCR-based testing offers higher sensitivity and can detect low-level parasitemia, making it especially valuable in cases of mixed infections or when microscopy results are inconclusive.
How to Prepare
- Ensure the sample is collected in an EDTA vacutainer for whole blood
- For dried blood spot, use the provided filter paper and allow to air dry completely
- Label the sample with patient name, date, and time of collection
- Transport the sample to the laboratory as soon as possible; if delayed, store at 2-8°C for up to 24 hours
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"Quantitative PCR for Plasmodium species is essential for accurate diagnosis and monitoring of malaria, especially in cases of mixed infections or low parasitemia. Early species identification guides targeted therapy and reduces the risk of severe disease."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Hemolyzed or clotted samples
- Incorrectly labeled samples
- Samples received after prolonged transit without proper temperature control
- Insufficient sample volume
Understanding Your Results
No Plasmodium DNA detected
Malaria is unlikely, but if symptoms persist, consider repeat testing or alternative diagnoses.
P. falciparum DNA detected
High risk of severe malaria; immediate treatment with artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) is required.
P. vivax DNA detected
Treatment with chloroquine (if sensitive) or ACT, followed by primaquine to prevent relapse.
Species-specific DNA detected
Treatment depends on species; P. knowlesi can be severe and requires prompt therapy.
High parasite density (e.g., >5% parasitemia)
Indicates severe malaria; close monitoring and intensive care may be needed.
Consult a doctor immediately if you experience fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, or fatigue, especially after traveling to a malaria-endemic area. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent severe complications. If you have been diagnosed with malaria, follow up with your healthcare provider to monitor treatment response.
Limitations
- ⚠PCR cannot distinguish between active infection and recent treated infection if residual DNA persists
- ⚠Quantification may not correlate directly with clinical severity in all cases
- ⚠Test does not provide information on drug resistance
- ⚠Results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and other laboratory tests
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minimal risk of bleeding or bruising at the puncture site
- ●Rare risk of infection at the puncture site
- ●Dizziness or fainting during blood collection
Interfering Factors
- ●Prior antimalarial treatment may reduce parasite DNA levels, leading to false-negative results
- ●Hemolyzed or improperly stored blood samples may degrade DNA and affect test accuracy
- ●Contamination during sample collection or processing can cause false-positive results
- ●Very low parasitemia below the detection limit of the assay may yield false-negative results
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Plasmodium Species Quantitative Test | Blood Smear (Microscopy) | Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Plasmodium Species Quantitative Test | Microscopy is the gold standard but requires skilled personnel and may miss low parasitemia. PCR is more sensitive and can identify species even when smear is negative. | RDTs are quick and simple but have lower sensitivity for non-falciparum species and cannot quantify parasite load. PCR is superior for species identification and quantification. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of the Plasmodium Species Quantitative 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 the results?
Can this test detect all Plasmodium species?
Is home sample collection available?
What is the difference between this test and a rapid malaria test?
Can I take antimalarial medication before the test?
Is this test covered by insurance?
What should I do if my test is positive?
Are there any risks associated with the blood draw?
Can this test be done for children?
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