Specimen Requirements

Container Type: Lavender top tube (EDTA)
Specimen Type: EDTA whole blood
Emergency Minimum Volume: 2 mL EDTA whole blood 
Collection Procedure: The best time to obtain specimen is shortly after paroxysm. Another sample 10 hours later will assist in speciation.
Specimen Processing: Store and transport at room temperature.
Limitations: Blood smears must be made immediately or within one hour of collection. Degredation of both parasites and RBC can occur after one hour, leading to an increased risk of false negative results.