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Medical information Clinical review pending

Genetic Testing

Plasmodium Species RNA Detection Qualitative Test

Detects the presence of malaria-causing Plasmodium parasites in the blood using RNA detection. Essential for early diagnosis and treatment of malaria.

General information only: This page is not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. A qualified clinician should decide whether testing is appropriate and interpret results in context.

Review status: No completed medical review is recorded for this page.

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Counselor guidance included Confidential handling Kenya-wide coordination

At a glance

Plan your test

Sample
Blood sample (typically collected in an EDTA tube).
Results
Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
Preparation
No special preparation is required for this test. However, inform the laboratory staff about any medications you are currently taking.
Test priceKSh 9,520

Payment: M-Pesa and card options can be confirmed during booking.

Insurance & government schemes

Is this test covered for you?

We help you verify whether the Plasmodium Species RNA Detection Qualitative Test test can be claimed against your insurer, employer scheme or a Kenyan government health scheme — before you book. Coverage depends on your plan, clinical indication and your provider's rules; final approval always rests with them.

Talk to a claims advisor

Providers & schemes we can help you check

Government & public schemes

SHIF — Social Health Insurance Fund Linda Mama EduAfya NHIF (legacy cards)

Eligibility and benefits follow the current rules of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and applicable government programmes.

Private insurers & employer schemes

Jubilee Health AAR APA Britam CIC Madison Resolution Pioneer Minet Old Mutual GA Life Heritage + other licensed insurers

Names shown for identification only — listing does not imply partnership or guarantee of coverage.

Have these ready when we check

  • Insurer or scheme name & policy / member number
  • A clinician's request / prescription for the test
  • Pre-authorisation letter, if your plan requires one

Free coverage check

Ask us to verify your cover

Send your details and our claims team confirms what documents you need and whether pre-authorisation applies — usually the same working day.

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Used only to process your coverage check — see our Privacy Policy. Verification support is free and does not guarantee your provider will pay.

01

Start with fit

Is this the right test for you?

The best test starts with a clear clinical question. These are common reasons a clinician or family may consider this test.

  • ✓Symptoms suggestive of malaria (fever, chills, headache, fatigue)
  • ✓Travel history to malaria-endemic areas
  • ✓Exposure to mosquito bites in malaria-prone regions
  • ✓Diagnosis in patients with severe illness of unknown origin
  • ✓Confirmation of malaria diagnosis
  • ✓Monitoring treatment response (consult your doctor)
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test aids in the early and accurate diagnosis of malaria infection by detecting Plasmodium RNA in the blood. It helps guide appropriate treatment decisions and monitor disease progression.
The Plasmodium Species RNA Detection Qualitative Test is a vital diagnostic tool used to detect the presence of malaria-causing parasites in the bloodstream. Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Plasmodium, transmitted through the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment and management.

This test specifically measures the presence of RNA from Plasmodium species, allowing for the qualitative detection of malaria infection. Unlike traditional methods, the use of Real Time RT-PCR technology enables rapid and accurate results, ensuring timely intervention.

Taking the Plasmodium Species RNA Detection Qualitative Test offers numerous benefits:

- Early and accurate diagnosis of malaria. - Guidance for appropriate treatment options. - Reduction of complications associated with delayed diagnosis. - Peace of mind for individuals concerned about their health.

Results from the Plasmodium Species RNA Detection Qualitative Test will indicate the presence or absence of malaria infection. A positive result suggests that the malaria parasite is present, and immediate medical attention is recommended. Conversely, a negative result indicates no detectable malaria infection. However, follow-up testing may be required based on clinical symptoms.

We have branches across major cities in Kenya, ensuring that you have easy access to our diagnostic services. For added convenience, we offer home sample collection services to make the process as smooth as possible.
03

Medical review status

Clinical review pending

A completed medical review is not recorded for this page. No clinician has endorsed the information shown here. Please discuss testing decisions with a qualified healthcare professional.

Meet the DNA Labs Kenya medical team →
04

A simple process

What happens next?

You do not have to navigate the test alone. We help you move from question to next step.

1

Speak with us

We check the test and answer your questions before collection.

2

Give your sample

Choose home collection or a coordinated hub visit in Kenya. We explain whether this test uses a cheek swab or blood draw.

3

Understand your report

A counselor helps you understand the result and the next steps.

05

Choose your collection

Home collection or a lab visit

We will explain the sample, preparation, and next steps before anything is collected.

Home collection

Choose a coordinated visit at home or another convenient location. Our team confirms the appointment and sample requirements in advance.

Lab or hub visit

Prefer to visit a coordinated location? We can guide you to the right hub and explain what to expect when you arrive.

Ask about locations →
PreparationNo special preparation is required for this test. However, inform the laboratory staff about any medications you are currently taking.
SampleBlood sample (typically collected in an EDTA tube).
MethodologyReal-Time Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR).
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test detects the presence of Plasmodium RNA but does not quantify the parasite load. A negative result does not completely rule out malaria, especially if the parasite load is very low or if the sample was collected very early in the infection. Consult with your doctor to interpret results in the context of your clinical presentation.
06

Read your report

What common result terms mean

PositiveA finding was identified. Your clinician or counselor will explain what it means for your care.
NegativeThe specific finding tested for was not identified. It does not rule out every possible cause.
VUSA variant was found, but current evidence is not enough to classify it. Your counselor can explain follow-up.
07

Questions people ask

Frequently asked questions

This test detects the genetic material (RNA) of the Plasmodium parasite, which causes malaria.
This test is highly accurate for detecting the presence of malaria parasites. However, accuracy can be influenced by factors like the timing of the sample collection and the parasite load.
No, fasting is not required for this test.
Turnaround time varies. Please confirm the expected timeframe with the laboratory before booking.
A positive result indicates the presence of malaria parasites. You should consult your doctor immediately for diagnosis confirmation and appropriate treatment.
08

Collaboration

Open for partnership with hospitals, clinics, doctors & researchers

Whether you are referring patients, building a research programme or supporting students, we work as an extension of your team — with responsive communication and clear scientific standards.

Hospitals & clinics

Referral pathways, coordinated sample logistics and shared reporting that fits your clinical workflow.

Doctors & specialists

LOINC-coded reports, ACMG-based variant classification and a direct scientific line for complex cases.

Research institutions

Sanger sequencing, NGS panels and custom assays — with project design support, batch pricing and agreed turnaround commitments.

Students & academic projects

Discounted laboratory services for college, master's and PhD research projects — including proposal guidance and cost-effective batch testing.

Explore partnerships
09

Trust & transparency

Sources, standards & how this page is maintained

Standards & references

  • ACMG/AMP technical standards for sequence variant interpretation
  • ClinGen curation and gene–disease validity frameworks where applicable
  • LOINC-coded reporting for interoperable results
  • ISO 9001:2015 quality management; ISO 15189 accreditation in progress

Page provenance

  • Last updated: September 27, 2026
  • Medical review: not yet completed
  • Written for patients & clinicians in Kenya; reviewed periodically against current guidance

Medical disclaimer: this page is general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. Testing decisions and result interpretation should be made with a qualified healthcare professional.

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