Examination of blood for detection of microfilaria

EXAMINATION OF BLOOD FOR DETECTION OF MICROFILARIA

Variety of methods can be used to detect microfilariae in venous blood samples.

Direct Blood Smear (wet film examination)

Procedure

  • Place one drop of heparinized or EDTA mixed blood on a slide, add a droplet of physiological saline, mix and cover with a coverslip.
  • Examine directly under low power (10X) of a microscope for live microfilariae. Larvae can be immobilized by placing a drop of 10% formalin or Lugol’s iodine at the edge of the coverslip.
Last modified: Tuesday, 17 April 2012, 6:22 AM