Plasmodium Species (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test
Short Name: Plasmodium RNA Qualitative
Also known as: Malaria RNA PCR, Plasmodium RNA Detection
Plasmodium Species (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹4,760. Uses Real Time RT-PCR on Whole blood, dried spot samples. Results in Reports are available on the 4th working day. Email reports are sent within 48 hours, and 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 the Plasmodium Species (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test is to confirm the presence of Plasmodium RNA in the blood, thereby diagnosing malaria. It is particularly valuable when microscopy is negative but clinical suspicion remains high, or when species identification is required for treatment decisions. The test aids in early detection, which is crucial for preventing severe disease and mortality.
- Test Code
- 6224
- CPT Code
- 87899
- ICD Code
- B54
- Price
- ₹4,760
- Sample Type
- Whole blood, dried spot
- Result Time
- Reports are available on the 4th working day. Email reports are sent within 48 hours, and phone consultation within 36 hours.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Real Time RT-PCR
Sample Collection
No special preparation is required. However, patients must sign a consent document and provide any relevant clinical history.
Method: Venipuncture or fingerstick for dried spot
Laboratory Analysis
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in the arm or collected as a dried blood spot. The procedure is quick and minimally invasive.
Report Delivery
No specific aftercare is needed. Patients can resume normal activities immediately.
Timeline: Reports are available on the 4th working day. Email reports are sent within 48 hours, and phone consultation within 36 hours.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of the Plasmodium Species (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test is to confirm the presence of Plasmodium RNA in the blood, thereby diagnosing malaria. It is particularly valuable when microscopy is negative but clinical suspicion remains high, or when species identification is required for treatment decisions. The test aids in early detection, which is crucial for preventing severe disease and mortality.
How to Prepare
- Ensure the patient has signed the consent form
- Collect whole blood in an EDTA vacutainer or prepare dried blood spot on filter paper
- Label the sample with patient identification
- Transport the sample to the laboratory immediately or store as per instructions
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"Early and accurate diagnosis of malaria is critical to reduce mortality. Molecular tests like RNA detection offer high sensitivity, especially in low parasitemia or mixed infections. I recommend this test for patients with suspected malaria when microscopy is inconclusive or when species identification is needed for appropriate treatment."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Hemolyzed or clotted sample
- Insufficient sample volume
- Improper labeling
- Sample not stored or transported under recommended conditions
Understanding Your Results
Detected
Positive for Plasmodium RNA. Malaria infection is confirmed. Clinical correlation and species identification may be needed for treatment.
Not Detected
Negative for Plasmodium RNA. No evidence of malaria. However, if symptoms persist, consider alternative diagnosis or repeat testing.
If you experience symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, and fatigue, especially after travel to a malaria-endemic area, consult a physician immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital to prevent severe complications.
Limitations
- ⚠Qualitative test does not differentiate between Plasmodium species
- ⚠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 equipment and trained personnel
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minimal risk of bleeding or bruising at the puncture site
- ●Rare risk of infection
- ●Fainting or dizziness during blood collection
Interfering Factors
- ●Hemolysis of blood sample
- ●Improper storage or transport leading to RNA degradation
- ●Contamination during sample processing
- ●Recent antimalarial treatment may reduce RNA levels
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Plasmodium Species (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test | Peripheral Blood Smear (Microscopy) | Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) | Conventional PCR (DNA) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Plasmodium Species (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test | Microscopy is the gold standard, but it requires skilled personnel and may miss low parasitemia. RNA detection is more sensitive and can detect early infections. | RDTs detect antigens and are quick, but they have lower sensitivity and may not detect all species. RNA detection is more accurate. | DNA PCR detects Plasmodium DNA, but RNA detection may indicate active infection better as RNA is less stable. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Plasmodium Species (RNA Detection) Qualitative Test?
How much does the test cost at DNA Labs India?
What sample is required for this test?
Do I need to fast before the test?
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Is home sample collection available?
What does a positive result mean?
Can this test identify the species of Plasmodium?
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