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Test Code MALAG Malaria Antigen

Clinical Indications

Test Method: Detects the antigen histidine-rich protein II (HRPII) that is specific to Plasmodium falciparum and a pan-malarial antigen, common to species capable of infecting humans (P. falciparum, P. vivax, P. ovale, and P. malariae).

Aids in the rapid diagnosis of malaria infections

Additional Test Codes

Epic Order Code: Malaria Antigen
Sunquest Order Code: MALAG
Px Order Code: LAB2937

Specimen Collection Type

Lavender top
EDTA whole blood

For optimal results sample testing should be performed within an hour after collection.

If testing cannot be performed immediately, sample should be stored at 2-30°C.

Minimum Collection Volume

0.5 mL

Reference Range

Negative

Critical Value

Positive Malaria antigen

Interpretation

A positive result indicates the presence of P. falciparum, P. vivax, P. malariae, P. ovale, and/or mixed infection with multiple Plasmodium species.

A negative result does not exclude infection with malaria, particularly at low levels of parasitemia.

All results from malaria antigen testing must be confirmed by malaria smear (MAL), which will be reflexively performed and reported.

Follow up antigen testing should not be performed on patients with known malaria infection. Order malaria smear (MAL) to monitor response to treatment via percent parasitemia.

Rejection Criteria

Specimen not collected in lavender top EDTA.

Specimen Availability for Add-on Testing

N/A

Specimen Stability

If testing cannot be performed immediately, EDTA whole blood sample may be stored at 2-30°C for up to 3 days.

Day(s) Performed

Monday through Sunday

Performing Lab- Department

TUKHS-BH-Microbiology

CPT Code

87899

LOINC Code

70569-9

Test Alias

N/A

Additional Information / Notes

Patients with positive Rheumatoid factor (Rf) may produce a false positive result.