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Malaria screen

Infection and immunity tests · also printed as Malaria, Malaria film, Malaria antigen, Malaria rapid test, Malaria parasites

Typical UK adult rangeExpected result: Negative

Negative is the expected result; three negative screens on separate days are needed to exclude it.

What this test measures

The malaria screen looks for the parasite in a blood film and with a rapid antigen test, in someone with fever after travel.

Why doctors request it

Requested for any fever after travel to a malaria area, usually on three occasions to be sure.

What commonly pushes it up

Malaria infection

What commonly pushes it down

A negative result is the usual finding

Everyday reasons for a value outside the range

Results can be equivocal and are then repeated
Recent vaccination or infection elsewhere can occasionally give a weak positive

About the sample

No fasting needed.

Written by a UK consultant physician. Typical UK adult reference ranges; your laboratory's own printed range takes precedence.

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This is an educational summary of results you uploaded. It is not medical advice, a diagnosis or a treatment plan, and it does not replace the doctor who requested the test. If you are worried, or a result is marked outside range, discuss it with your doctor. Written and reviewed by a UK consultant physician. Reference ranges vary between laboratories.