Parasites Smear (Giemsa Stain), Blood

Transport 5 mL whole blood (Min: 1 mL). Extended exposure to EDTA anticoagulants can result in altered parasite morphology. For best results, send 5 thin blood smears (unstained, unfixed) AND 5 thick smears (unstained, unfixed) in addition to whole blood. Thin and thick blood smears should be prepared immediately or within 1 hour after collection.
Thin smears are made as per routine hematology differentials. Thick smears are made by dropping 10 to 20 µL of blood onto a slide and spreading it into a dime-sized area with a glass, wooden, or plastic applicator.
For instructions on preparation of thick and thin smears, see https://www.cdc.gov/dpdx/diagnosticProcedures/blood/specimenproc.html
Label and transport slides in slide holders. Specimen must be received within 24 hours of collection.
Regional clients MUST submit 5 thin blood smears and 5 thick smears in addition to whole blood.