Peripheral Smear of Microfilaria
Peripheral Smear of Microfilaria
Microfilaria is a larva that causes filariasis in individuals. Filariasis, also known as elephantiasis, is a parasitic infection that causes the limbs or other parts of the body to become enlarged due to obstruction of lymphatic vessels.
A peripheral smear of microfilaria is a test that detects these microfilaria larvae in the blood and lymphatic tissues of an infected individual. It is done to diagnose filariasis disease and other conditions caused by microfilaria larvae, such as lymphangitis, lymphadenitis, elephantiasis, and tropical eosinophilia
Symptoms of Filariasis
A peripheral smear of microfilaria is recommended in individuals who show the following symptoms,
Fever
Inflammation (due to an overactive immune system
Lymphedema (fluid build-up in lymphatic system)
Hydrocele (fluid build-up in the scrotum)
Edema (fluid build-up in arms and legs etc)
Test preparation:
No special preparations are required to undergo a peripheral smear for the microfilaria test. A healthcare provider will collect your blood sample at night between 10 pm and 2 am since the microfilaria circulate in the blood only during the night (nocturnal periodicity). Later, a thick smear is made, stained with Giemsa or hematoxylin and eosin, and observed under a microscope for the presence of bacteria.
Interpretation of results
Normal values: >100kU/L (kilo units per litre)
If microfilaria is detected at higher levels than normal in your blood, it is a sign that you have filariasis.
FAQs
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for the peripheral smear for microfilaria test?
The test results of the peripheral smear for microfilaria are usually available within 3–4 working days after the sample collection. However, it could take a little longer at times
Are there any risks associated with the peripheral smear for microfilaria test?
No, there are no potential risks associated with the peripheral smear of microfilaria test. It is a simple blood test that involves negligible risk, such as feeling a slight sting or bruise at the site of sample collection. It usually resolves within a few minutes to a few hours
Why is this test conducted only at night times?
Microfilaria larvae exhibit nocturnal periodicity, meaning they come into peripheral circulation only during nighttime hours from 10 pm to 2 am. Therefore, the test is conducted only at night. Collecting blood during the daytime can lead to false-negative results since the larvae reside deep into tissues, escaping the blood circulation during the daytime
Can I get false-negative results of the peripheral smear for microfilaria?
Yes. A few times, it is also possible to get false-negative test results in the initial days of filariasis infection. As microfilaria grow slowly, there are not many parasites in the body during the early stages of infection. Thus, the test results can be given as negative for microfilaria
How do I prevent filariasis infection?
Filariasis is a parasitic infection most common in tropical regions. It is spread through mosquito bites. Many people have no symptoms in the early days of infection, while others develop chronic inflammation and swelling in different body parts.
The easiest strategy to avoid contracting filariasis is to stay away from mosquito bites. To avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes, the following actions could be taken:
· Sleeping under mosquito nets
· Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants while staying outdoors, especially during the night
· Using mosquito repellents on exposed skin, usually at nights
· Keeping your surroundings clean and hygienic
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