Smear for MF (Microfilaria)
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Detect the presence of microfilariae, the larval stage of filarial parasites
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🧪 What is Smear for Microfilaria?
The Smear for Microfilaria test is a microscopic examination of peripheral blood or other body fluids to detect the presence of microfilariae, the larval stage of filarial parasites such as Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, and Loa loa.
❓ Why is the Test Done?
To:
- Diagnose filariasis, a parasitic infection causing lymphatic obstruction and elephantiasis
- Identify the species of filarial parasite based on morphology
- Monitor response to antifilarial treatment
- Investigate unexplained lymphedema or fever of unknown origin in endemic areas
🔬 How the Test is Performed
- Blood sample is collected, often at night (10 pm – 2 am) when microfilariae circulate in peripheral blood (nocturnal periodicity)
- A thin or thick blood smear is prepared on a slide
- Smear is stained (e.g., Giemsa stain)
- Microscopic examination identifies microfilariae by size, shape, and sheath characteristics
📊 Normal Results
Result | Interpretation |
|---|---|
No microfilariae detected | Negative for microfilaria |
Microfilariae present | Positive for filarial infection |
📈 Interpretation of Results
Finding | Clinical Implication |
|---|---|
Microfilariae detected | Confirmed filarial infection |
No microfilariae detected | Does not completely exclude filariasis (may require repeated testing or antigen assays) |
🧠 Associated Conditions
Condition | Details |
|---|---|
Lymphatic filariasis | Causes lymphedema, elephantiasis |
Loiasis | Eye worm, Calabar swellings |
Tropical pulmonary eosinophilia | Hypersensitivity reaction to filarial antigens |
🔄 Related / Follow-Up Tests
- Filarial antigen detection tests (immunochromatographic tests)
- Ultrasound of lymphatics
- Complete blood count (CBC) – eosinophilia may be present
- Serologic tests for filarial antibodies
✅ Fasting Required?
Test | Fasting Required |
|---|---|
Smear for Microfilaria | ❌ No |
📝 Summary Table
Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
What | Microscopic detection of microfilariae in blood smear |
Why | Diagnose filarial infections causing lymphatic disease |
Normal Result | No microfilariae observed |
Positive Result | Presence of microfilariae indicating infection |
Associated Conditions | Lymphatic filariasis, loiasis, tropical pulmonary eosinophilia |
Follow-up Tests | Antigen tests, ultrasound, CBC, serology |
Fasting Required | ❌ No |
How our test process works!
