Malaria Antigen Test (Vivax & Falciparum)

What Does the Malaria Antigen Test Measure?

The test measures specific markers to confirm malaria infection and identify the type of parasite:

• Plasmodium falciparum antigens - Detect the most dangerous malaria species, which can cause severe, potentially life-threatening complications.
• Plasmodium vivax antigens - Identify another common malaria species found across India.
• Parasite-specific proteins - Measures antigens released when malaria parasites infect your red blood cells.
• Active infection status - Confirms whether you currently have an ongoing malaria infection requiring immediate treatment.

Malaria Antigen Test: Who Needs It and Why It's Done

What symptoms may call for a malaria antigen test?

Your doctor may recommend this test if you experience symptoms suggestive of malaria infection:

• High fever that may come and go in cycles
• Shaking chills and sweating
• Severe headache and body aches
• Muscle pain and fatigue
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Extreme tiredness and weakness

Who should get a malaria antigen test?

Several groups of people should consider getting tested for malaria:

• Individuals with fever symptoms - Anyone experiencing unexplained fever, especially with chills.
• Travellers returning from malaria-endemic areas - People returning from malaria-endemic areas who develop fever.
• Residents of high-risk areas - Those living in areas with known malaria transmission.
• Pregnant women with symptoms - Expectant mothers showing signs of fever or illness.
• People with occupational exposure - Individuals working in outdoor or rural environments.

Why is a malaria antigen test done?

This test provides a rapid and accurate diagnosis of malaria, enabling doctors to start appropriate treatment immediately. Early detection and treatment are crucial for preventing severe complications and ensuring complete recovery.

Importance of a Malaria Antigen Test

The malaria antigen test plays a crucial role in India’s malaria control and elimination efforts, where the disease remains a significant public health concern. This test provides results within a few hours, enabling doctors to begin treatment quickly when every moment counts. By accurately identifying whether you have Plasmodium falciparum or Plasmodium vivax, your doctor can prescribe the most effective antimalarial medication tailored to your infection type.

The test's reliability helps prevent complications like severe anaemia, organ failure, and cerebral malaria that can occur when treatment is delayed. Additionally, proper diagnosis helps prevent the unnecessary use of antimalarial medications, reducing the risk of developing drug resistance.

Malaria Antigen Test Booking & Reports – Metropolis Healthcare India

How to book a malaria antigen test?

1. Simple Online Booking
   Booking can be done through the Metropolis Healthcare App or website. Select Malaria Antigen Test, choose a convenient time slot, and provide your address for a blood test at home. You can also visit the nearest Metropolis Lab if you prefer to give the sample directly at the lab.
2. Safe Home Sample Collection
   Our trained phlebotomists ensure the timely collection of your sample while strictly following all safety and hygiene protocols.
3. Sample Tracking Updates
   Stay informed at every step. From collection to testing, you can track your sample directly through the Metropolis Healthcare website.
4. Accurate Laboratory Testing
   Your sample is processed at our NABL & CAP accredited laboratories, where expert technicians ensure accurate results.
5. Quick & Easy Reports
   Receive your test reports promptly via email, WhatsApp, or by downloading them directly from the Metropolis Healthcare website or app.

Is home sample collection for the malaria antigen test available near you?

Yes, Metropolis Healthcare provides home blood sample collection for the Malaria Antigen Test. Our trained phlebotomists visit your home at your preferred time, following strict safety protocols during sample collection. This service eliminates travel concerns, especially when you're feeling unwell with fever symptoms.

How long does it take to get a malaria antigen test Report?

Reports are typically available within 4 hours after the sample reaches the lab.

Where can I see or get malaria antigen test results?

Test results from Metropolis Healthcare can be accessed through multiple convenient channels. You can log in to the Metropolis website using your credentials or use the Metropolis Healthcare App to view and download your reports. Additionally, test reports are sent via email or WhatsApp, and you also have the option to collect a physical copy directly from the lab.

Interpreting Malaria Antigen Test Results

The following table explains what your malaria antigen test results mean:

Conditions that May Affect Malaria Antigen Test Accuracy

Several factors can influence your malaria antigen test results and should be discussed with your doctor:

• Cross-reactivity with other infections - Some bacterial or viral infections may rarely cause false positive results.
• Persistence of antigens - Antigens may remain detectable for days after successful treatment, potentially causing false positives.
• Very high parasite levels - Extremely elevated antigen concentrations may occasionally cause false-negative results.
• Recent antimalarial treatment - Taking malaria medications before testing may affect antigen detection.
• Improper sample handling - Blood samples stored at incorrect temperatures may yield unreliable results.
• Timing of sample collection - Very early infection stages might not produce detectable antigen levels.

How is a Malaria Antigen Test Done?

The malaria antigen test procedure is simple and quick:

• The healthcare professional cleans your arm with an antiseptic solution to prevent infection.
• A tourniquet is tied around your upper arm to make the veins more visible and easier to access.
• A sterile needle is inserted into a vein, usually in the crease of your elbow.
• Blood is drawn into a collection tube attached to the needle.
• Once enough blood is collected, the needle is removed, and pressure is applied to stop any bleeding.
• A bandage is placed over the site, and the sample is sent to the pathology lab.

How Should You Prepare for a Malaria Antigen Test?

Preparing for your malaria antigen test is straightforward:

• No fasting required - You can eat and drink normally before the test.
• Continue regular medications - Continue your regular medications unless your doctor advises otherwise.
• Stay hydrated - Drink adequate water, especially if you have a fever.
• Inform about recent travel - Tell your doctor about any recent travel to malaria-endemic areas.
• Share symptom history - Provide details about when your symptoms started and their pattern.
• Wear comfortable clothing - Choose clothes that allow easy access to your arm or finger for blood collection.

Diseases that a Malaria Antigen Test Can Help Detect

The malaria antigen test specifically helps detect malaria infections caused by different parasite species:

• Plasmodium falciparum malaria - The most severe form, known to cause potentially life-threatening complications.
• Plasmodium vivax malaria - A common type in India that can cause recurring infections.
• Mixed malaria infections - Cases where both P. falciparum and P. vivax parasites are detected simultaneously.
• Active malaria infection - Current parasitic infection requiring immediate treatment.
• Malaria in high-risk populations - Particularly in pregnant women, children, and immunocompromised individuals.

Malaria Antigen Test/Packages that You Can Book With Metropolis Healthcare

The following comprehensive tests and packages are available to support your health screening needs:

Malaria Antigen Test Prices in Different Cities

The cost of a malaria antigen test may vary depending on your location. Here's a table showing the approximate prices in different cities.