Malaria Testing in Delhi
Delhi sees a significant number of malaria cases, particularly during and after the monsoon season. Two types of malaria parasites predominate in Delhi: Plasmodium vivax (P. vivax) and Plasmodium falciparum (P. falciparum), with P. falciparum being more dangerous. At Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi, we provide rapid and accurate malaria diagnosis.
Types of Malaria Tests
Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) – Malaria Antigen Test
- Results in 15–20 minutes
- Detects P. falciparum (HRP2) and P. vivax (pLDH) antigens
- Good sensitivity for P. falciparum, lower for low-density P. vivax
- Can remain positive for 2–3 weeks after treatment (antigen persistence)
Peripheral Blood Smear (MP Smear)
- Gold standard for malaria diagnosis
- Thick smear: sensitive for detecting parasites
- Thin smear: species identification and parasite density count
- Requires trained microscopist
- Should be done in all suspected cases, especially if RDT negative but high suspicion
Malaria PCR
- Most sensitive test
- Useful for low-density parasitaemia and mixed infections
- Species differentiation and drug resistance markers
- Results take longer (24–48 hours)
When to Test for Malaria
- Fever with rigors (shaking chills) in Delhi during/after monsoon
- Fever every 48–72 hours (tertian or quartan pattern)
- Fever with splenomegaly or anaemia
- Fever not responding to standard antibiotics
Treatment
P. vivax: Chloroquine + Primaquine. P. falciparum: ACT (Artemisinin-based combination therapy). Severe falciparum malaria: IV artesunate in hospital.
Malaria testing at Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi: 011-41670042. Rapid results.
