| Limitations: | If stool specimen is suspected of containing tapeworm segments or other adult worms, the suspected worm should be placed in 70% alcohol or 10% formalin, and submitted ordered as Macroscopic Parasite Identification (MACROPARASIT) LAB3602. For optimal results, a specific request should be made for the detection of Cryptosporidium, microsporidium, Cyclospora or pinworm. If Cryptosporidiosis is suspected, a Cryptosporidiosis stain (CRYPSTN) LAB3412 should be ordered. This test is not appropriate for the detection of Acanthamoeba, filaria, malaria, trypanosomes, Toxoplasma or Trichomonas. Examination of a minimum of three specimens is required for the detection of greater than or equal to 90% of some protozoal infections, especially Giardiasis.
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| Use: | Detection and identification of parasites: included are Giardia, Entamoeba histolytica (amoeba), Helminth eggs, protozoa, larval worms and segments (proglottids) of tapeworms. Diarrhea, malnutrition, anemia and intestinal obstruction are some of the consequences of infection with intestinal parasites. Protozoa may cause diarrhea and/or malabsorption by elaborating toxins or by adhering to or invading the mucosa or by unknown mechanisms. Cryptosporidiosis occurs as a self-limited moderate diarrhea in young children, especially daycare attendees and their relatives. Helminths (worms) may obstruct the intestine, cause blood loss, or interfere with the absorption of essential nutrients. Larvae or eggs may disseminate beyond the intestine and cause tissue destruction and provoke inflammation. Parasitic protozoa and Helminths of various types also may inhabit the intestinal tract of humans and animals without causing disease.
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