Malaria Parasite Test (MP Smear) in New Town, Kolkata
At Pure Bliss Healthcare Centre, Action Area 2, New Town.
What the Malaria Parasite Test (MP Smear) measures
In this test a drop of blood is spread on a glass slide, stained and examined under a microscope for malaria parasites. Microscopy can show whether parasites are present, which species is involved, most commonly Plasmodium vivax or Plasmodium falciparum in India, and roughly how many there are, which helps the doctor judge severity and choose treatment. It remains a standard method for diagnosing malaria. Its main limitation is that parasites may be scanty, especially early in the illness or after a partial course of medicine, so one negative smear does not rule malaria out. When suspicion remains, doctors often repeat the smear every 12 to 24 hours, and may add a rapid malaria antigen test. Malaria typically causes fever with chills and shivering, sometimes coming in cycles, along with headache, body ache and sweating. Falciparum malaria in particular can become serious quickly; confusion, yellow eyes, dark urine, breathlessness or very little urine need hospital care immediately.
Price: the Malaria Parasite Test (MP Smear) costs ₹120 at Pure Bliss (MRP ₹150), with the sample collected at our Action Area 2, New Town centre or at your home.
Who this test is for
- Fever with chills and shivering, especially in the monsoon months
- Fever after travel to an area with more malaria
- Part of a fever panel ordered by a doctor
- Repeat smears when malaria is still suspected after a negative result
How to prepare, the sample, and when to expect the report
Preparation
No fasting is needed. If possible give the sample before starting any antimalarial medicine, and tell us if you have already taken one.
Reporting time
Same day for morning samples; otherwise within 24 hours.
Sample
Blood, from a vein in the arm (whole blood in an EDTA tube).
Reading the result
Ranges vary by lab; your report shows the lab's reference range next to each value. The result is reported as parasites seen or not seen, with the species when found. Ask your doctor to interpret the result.
Centre or home collection NABL-accredited Redcliffe Labs collection centre Most routine reports within 24 hoursHow collection works →
Related Tests
Malaria Parasite Test (MP Smear) — common questions
Booking, preparation and reporting for the Malaria Parasite Test (MP Smear) at Action Area 2, New Town.
Does one negative smear rule out malaria?
No. Parasites can be few and missed on a single smear. If fever continues, your doctor may repeat the smear within a day or add a rapid antigen test.
Should the sample be taken during the fever?
Parasites can be seen at any time, though some doctors prefer a sample during or just before a fever spike. Do not delay the test waiting for one.
What is the difference between the smear and the rapid malaria test?
The smear is examined under a microscope and can show the species and parasite load. The rapid test detects parasite proteins and gives a quick yes or no. They are often used together.