Test code links throughout this Guide refer to the corresponding test in the User's Guide. Thick smears are made from hemolyzed blood for screening purposes and are most useful to detect cases with low level parasitemia.
Thin smears have more value for parasite classification.
Thick and thin blood smears may be used not only to screen patients at risk for blood parasites, but also to determine species and level of parasitemia in positive cases. Larger blood-borne parasites, such as filarial organisms and trypanosomes, may also be sought with this method. For optimal detection of malarial organisms, blood should be drawn immediately prior to an expected fever spike, not during a febrile episode. Acquired hemolytic anemias resulting from direct effects of infectious, chemical, or physical agents. Lea and Febiger Company, 1289-1304.