Malaria is caused by Plasmodium species (P. falciparum, P. vivax, P. malariae, P. ovale).

The QPC method involves preparing blood smears, staining them (usually Giemsa), and counting parasites relative to red blood cells or white blood cells.

Clinical uses include:

Confirming malaria infection.

Determining parasite density to assess severity.

Monitoring effectiveness of antimalarial treatment.

Differentiating between species of Plasmodium.

Considered more detailed than rapid card tests, as it provides quantitative data.

Analyte: Presence and quantity of malaria parasites in blood.

Normal Result: No parasites detected.

Abnormal Result: Parasites detected → density reported as parasites per μL of blood.

Clinical Use:

Detects malaria infection with high accuracy.

Quantifies parasite load to guide treatment decisions.

Supports diagnosis and monitoring in endemic areas.