Stool Ova and Parasites Examination

Looks under the microscope for parasite eggs and other parasite forms in stool.

When an intestinal parasitic infection is suspected and for epidemiological reasons.

1. Get the appropriate container and instructions from the laboratory in advance.
2. Collect the sample without mixing in water or urine.
3. Close the container and label it correctly.
4. Agree on the storage and delivery time for the specific test. In addition: place the stool in a clean container provided by the laboratory. Do not mix in urine, water or toilet chemicals. The delivery and storage time for the sample depends on the method.

Fasting is generally not required; it is important to follow the specific sample collection rules.

A specific time is generally not required. If your doctor has set a different time, follow those instructions.

• Incorrect collection or contamination of the sample
• Delayed delivery of the sample
• Certain medicines and coexisting conditions

Stool

Collect the stool in a dry, clean container; do not mix in urine, water or toilet chemicals. Store and deliver it according to the instructions for the specific test: conditions for antigen, parasitology and biochemical methods may differ.

A single negative sample does not always rule out a parasitic infection. What a high or low result means depends on age, symptoms, the method used and the reference interval.

If you see blood in your stool or have severe abdominal pain, dehydration or prolonged diarrhea, see a doctor; seek urgent care if symptoms are severe.

Parasites may be shed intermittently; your doctor may ask for several samples collected on different days.