Ova, Cysts and Parasites

Cryptococcus, Giardia and Entamoeba histolytica testing is carried out using PCR; all other ova, cysts and parasites are diagnosed via microscopy. Requests for ova, cysts and parasites are accepted on a case-by-case basis.

Sample type

Faeces and/or worm for identification

Specimen requirements

Stool sample / worm sent in a sterilin 30ml universal, with quick-start cap and spoon.

Provide any recent travel history.

Ideally three stool specimens from three different days are recommended (clearly labelled with date and time) because of the intermittent shedding of cysts and ova.

A 'hot' stool (that must be examined within 30 minutes of being passed by the patient) may be provided for amoebae investigation.

Investigations of Enterobius vermicularis require a sellotape preparation and/or perianal swab sample, but stool sample can also be used.

Investigation for Strongyloides spp and Hookworm spp culture require a fresh (less than two hours old if possible) semi-formed stool.

Minimum volume

>1g

Frequency of test

Daily

Turnaround time

• Cryptosporidium / Giardia / Entamoeba histolytica PCR - 4 days
• Parasites examination - 4 days
• Microscopy of faeces - 4 days

What to request on EPR

• Crypto, Giardia, Entamoeba PCR, faeces
• Ova, cysts and parasites, faeces
• Parasite for investigation, specimen