A returning traveller has a negative thick film but the clinician has high clinical suspicion for malaria. What is the recommended approach?...

Question

A returning traveller has a negative thick film but the clinician has high clinical suspicion for malaria. What is the recommended approach?

Accepted Answer

Repeat thick and thin films at 12-24 hour intervals for a total of three sets over 48-72 hours before malaria can be reasonably excluded

Answer

A single negative thick film excludes malaria; no further testing is needed

Answer

Only PCR testing can exclude malaria

Answer

Treat empirically without further testing

Answer

Discharge with safety-netting advice and no follow-up

uk-dtmh MCQ (SBA): Serial Blood Film Protocol