It is unclear whether DNA lysis buffers used for preservation of whole blood samples from Hawaiian forest birds cause denaturation and loss of antigen binding capability of antibody molecules. If their antigen binding capability is not affected, then the samples can be used in serological assays to provide an independent assessment of the accuracy of PCR (polymerase chain reaction) diagnostic tests for avian malaria. This data set reports raw absorbance measurements that were collected with a BioRad Model 3550 ELISA plate reader at a wavelength setting of 405 nm for different dilutions of blood from an infected Hawaii Amakihi that were preserved in PBS (phosphate buffered saline), TEN (Tris-Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid) Buffer, or TEN buffer that was subsequently treated with SDS (sodium dodecyl sulfate - ethylenediaminetetracetic acid) and Proteinase K.