The Smear for Microfilaria test detects microfilariae in the blood to help diagnose filarial infections.
The Smear for Microfilaria test is a blood test used to detect the presence of microfilariae, the larval stage of filarial parasites such as Wuchereria bancrofti and Brugia malayi.
A blood sample is examined under a microscope after staining to identify these parasites. The test is often performed at specific times (commonly at night) because microfilariae show periodicity and are more detectable in peripheral blood during certain hours.
This test is essential for diagnosing lymphatic filariasis, a parasitic infection that can lead to swelling of limbs and other complications if untreated.