040 68334455
WhatsApp
Patient Portal
Home Care
The Microfilaria Parasite Test is a simple lab test used to find tiny parasitic worms (called microfilariae) in your blood. These parasites are transmitted through mosquito bites and can cause a disease known as filariasis. If left untreated, this condition can lead to serious complications, including long-term swelling, thickened skin, or even elephantiasis (a severe form of limb swelling). This test helps detect the infection early,before any major symptoms or complications develop. It's often done in areas where the disease is common or if a person exhibits signs such as a constant fever, swollen lymph nodes, or skin changes.
Purpose of the Microfilaria Parasite Test
The main goal of this test is to detect parasitic infection caused by filarial worms in the blood.
Here's what the Microfilaria test helps determine:
- Early Diagnosis of Filariasis: Detects parasitic infection before visible symptoms, allowing for timely treatment.
- Confirmation of Chronic Infection: Assists in confirming advanced filarial cases with limb swelling or hydrocele.
- Monitoring Endemic Outbreaks: Helps track infection rates in areas where filariasis is common.
- Evaluating Persistent Symptoms: Investigates causes of prolonged fever, lymphatic swelling, or allergic reactions.
- Post-Treatment Assessment: Used to check parasite clearance following antiparasitic therapy.
Why is the Microfilaria Parasite Test Important?
Filariasis is a slow-progressing disease that often goes unnoticed until severe symptoms develop. This test provides vital information early in the infection stage.
Here's why it's important:
- Detects Infection Early: Identifies microfilariae in the bloodstream before visible symptoms emerge.
- Prevents Severe Complications: Timely diagnosis can stop the progression to chronic, disabling conditions.
- Supports Disease Eradication Programs: Crucial for public health screening in high-risk areas.
- Helps Control Transmission: Identifying infected individuals helps prevent the further spread of the disease through mosquitoes.
- Guides Effective Treatment: Ensures that antiparasitic drugs are only given to those who genuinely need them.
When is the Microfilaria Parasite Test Recommended?
Doctors may recommend this test when there is suspicion of a parasitic worm infection, especially in individuals who have lived in or traveled to endemic areas.
Common reasons to perform the test include:
- Recurrent or persistent fever of unknown origin
- Swelling of arms, legs, breasts, or genitals
- Thickening or darkening of the skin
- Visible lymph node enlargement
- Allergic symptoms such as rashes or itching
- History of travel to or residence in tropical/subtropical regions
- As part of mass screening during outbreak control
How Does the Microfilaria Parasite Test Work?
The Microfilaria Parasite Test checks for tiny parasitic worms (microfilariae) in your blood. These parasites are usually more active at night, so the blood sample is often taken in the evening or late at night.
Here's what happens during the test:
- Microscope Examination: A small drop of blood is placed on a slide, stained, and looked at under a microscope to spot the parasites.
- Thick and Thin Blood Smears: These methods enhance the likelihood of detecting microfilariae by spreading the blood out in various ways.
- Knott's Concentration Method: This special technique concentrates the parasites, making them easier to detect.
- Antigen Test (if needed): In some cases, a more advanced blood test is used to detect proteins (antigens) from the parasites for confirmation.
Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.
Get Second OpinionMicrofilaria Parasite Test Procedure
The procedure is simple and quick, but is ideally done at night or early morning, depending on the species' nocturnal habits.
Here's a typical process:
- Sample Collection: A technician draws a small amount of venous blood, preferably at a particular time.
- Sample Preparation: Blood is smeared onto a slide and stained using a special dye (like Giemsa).
- Microscopic Examination: A laboratory technician checks for parasites under a microscope.
- Result Documentation: If microfilariae are found, they are reported along with species identification.
How Should I Prepare for the Microfilaria Parasite Test?
Although this test is simple, following some basic instructions can improve its effectiveness:
- Timing is Crucial: The test should be performed at night when microfilariae are circulating in the bloodstream.
- Avoid Antiparasitic Drugs: Inform your doctor if you've recently taken medications that may affect parasite levels.
- Eat Light: There is usually no need to fast, but a light meal is recommended if testing late at night.
- Stay Calm: Anxiety or stress won't affect the test, but being relaxed ensures easier blood collection.
What Type of Sample is Collected for the Microfilaria Parasite Test?
A small venous blood sample is taken, typically from the inside of your elbow or the back of your hand. Here's what the process involves:
- The site is cleaned with antiseptic to avoid infection.
- A sterile needle is inserted, and blood is drawn into a test tube.
- The sample is labeled correctly and sent to the lab for immediate staining and analysis.
- No special care is needed after the blood is taken.
How is the Liver Function Test Performed?
The test is quick and painless, requiring only a few minutes to complete. Here's how it's usually done:
- You'll be seated comfortably, and a tourniquet is tied around your arm.
- The technician locates a vein, inserts the needle, and collects the required amount of blood.
- The sample is processed immediately, and slides are prepared, stained, and reviewed under a microscope.
- The test can be performed in a laboratory or clinic equipped for handling nocturnal samples.
Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.
Schedule Your Appointment
Understanding Microfilaria Parasite Test Results and Follow-Up
The test results will show whether microfilariae are present and, if so, identify their species.
Here's what your results might indicate:
- Positive for Microfilariae: It confirms infection. Treatment is initiated with antiparasitic medication such as diethylcarbamazine (DEC).
- Negative Result: No microfilariae detected, though further testing might be needed if symptoms persist.
- Species Identified: Helps tailor treatment (e.g., Wuchereria bancrofti or Brugia malayi).
Follow-up may include:
- Repeat testing (especially if symptoms continue but the initial test is negative)
- Ultrasound for lymphatic damage
- Medication course monitoring
- Vector control and family screening (in endemic zones)
What Should I Do After Getting My Microfilaria Parasite Test?
Once the test is completed:
- Resume Activities: There are no restrictions post-test unless advised otherwise.
- Follow Medical Advice: If the result is positive, start your treatment promptly.
- Watch for Side Effects: Some antiparasitic medications may cause temporary side effects, such as fever or rash.
- Stay Consistent: Complete your entire medication course to ensure parasites are eliminated.
- Prevent Future Infections: Use mosquito nets and repellents, especially in endemic areas.
Other Tests
Frequently Asked Questions
The Microfilaria Parasite Test is usually performed when a patient presents with symptoms that are consistent with a filarial infection, such as fever, lymphedema, and skin lesions. The test may also be performed as part of a routine screening program in areas where filarial infections are endemic.
No, the Microfilaria Parasite Test is not only used to diagnose filarial infections. It can also be used for monitoring the effectiveness of treatment for filarial infections and to detect a recurrence of the infection after treatment.
No, the test is not painful. It typically involves drawing a small blood sample, which may cause slight discomfort or a pinch. The procedure is quick and safe.
You may usually eat and drink before the test unless instructed otherwise by your doctor. However, testing is often done at night when microfilariae are most detectable in the blood.
Yes, certain medications, especially antiparasitic drugs, can affect test accuracy by lowering parasite levels in your blood. Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Test results are usually available within 24 to 48 hours. However, the timing may vary depending on the lab and test method used and Reports are sent directly to you via WhatsApp or as a printed copy.
The Microfilaria Parasite Test in India typically costs between Rs.150 to Rs.500, depending on the laboratory, location, and testing method used.
