Malaria Parasite (Rapid) Test in Kathmandu

About this test

This rapid diagnostic test looks for malaria proteins (antigens) released by the parasite into the bloodstream, giving a result within about fifteen to twenty minutes from a single drop of blood. It typically detects two targets: HRP-2, which is specific to Plasmodium falciparum (the species responsible for the most dangerous, potentially fatal form of malaria), and pan-LDH or aldolase, which signals the presence of other species such as Plasmodium vivax, the type most commonly seen in Nepal. A doctor orders it when someone presents with cyclical fever and chills, sweating, headache, body aches, or vomiting — particularly after returning from the Terai lowlands, the Indo-Nepal border districts, or other endemic areas during and after the monsoon, when mosquito breeding peaks. The rapid card is valued because it is fast and reliable even where a trained microscopist is unavailable, allowing treatment to begin quickly in a disease where delay can be life-threatening. It does not, however, tell you how heavy the infection is, and HRP-2 can stay positive for some weeks after the parasite has cleared, so a positive result is usually confirmed and quantified with a peripheral blood smear (the microscopy gold standard). A negative test during clear symptoms may need repeating, since parasite levels rise and fall with the fever cycle. Results are interpreted alongside the smear, a complete blood count (malaria often lowers platelets and haemoglobin), and the clinical picture to guide the correct anti-malarial treatment.

Sample type

Whole blood (EDTA or finger-prick)

Preparation

No fasting required. If possible, give the sample while the fever is present or rising, and tell us about any recent travel to the Terai or to malaria-endemic regions.

Turnaround time

Reports for Malaria Parasite (Rapid) are typically ready within: Same Day. Reports can be collected at the clinic during opening hours or shared via WhatsApp once they are ready.

Also known as

Other immunology tests we run

These are routinely ordered alongside Malaria Parasite (Rapid) or as part of the same diagnostic workup.

How to book

WhatsApp is the fastest way — message us with the test name and your preferred time, and we'll confirm a slot the same day. You can also walk into the clinic at Rumba Chowk, Sanobharang any day between 7AM and 8PM, or fill in our online booking form.