Microbiology Test

Test : Ova and Parasites


Indications : When is the test ordered /Indications

The test is ordered when the doctor suspects the role of parasitic infection in causing an intestinal symptom.

The following factors may interfere with test results and must be avoided two weeks prior to sample collection. They include -

•Antacids / anti-diarrheals /antibiotics /antiparasite drugs
　　• Barium (used for X-rays)
　　• Enemas / laxatives

A stool sample required for the test is collected using a clean plastic wrap placed in a sterile container with preservative fluid. Commercial kits containing special tissues that help in sample collection are also available.

Once the sample is collected, it is sent to the lab. If the sample is not placed in preservative fluid, it must be refrigerated until it is delivered to the lab. Sometimes, samples collected over two or three different days may have to be studied to confirm diagnosis.


Physiology : Ova and parasites test is a laboratory test carried out to diagnose the presence of parasites, or their ova (eggs), in the intestines of humans.

Symptoms of parasitic infection include diarrhea, watery stools, flatulence, cramps and other related illnesses. Amebic cysts, Giardia cysts, and helminth eggs can be recovered from stools of infected people. Mushy or liquid stools often harbor trophozoites stages of the parasite.


Normal Range : No parasites seen

Interpretation : Interpretation

Normal

No parasites / eggs in the stool sample.

Abnormal

Parasites or eggs are present in the stool sample studied, indicating any of the following infection -

• Amebiasis
• Giardiasis
• Strongyloidiasis
• Taeniasis
Further diagnosis may be carried out using antigen tests. In some cases, an endoscopy may also be carried out.

Sample : Fresh or preserved random stool or duodenal aspirate. If pinworm is suspected, a scotch Tape preparation should be submitted to the laboratory instead of stool.

Test Method : Wet mount and trichrome stain, Immunofluorescence, Counterimmunoelectrophoresis, Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay.

Related Tests : Ascariasis, Cryptosporidium procedure, Echinococcosis, Entamoeba histolytica, Enterovirus culture, Filariasis, Pinworm preparation, Rotavirus, Stool culture.

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