Investigations for ova, cysts and parasites are restricted to Outpatients and patients hospitalised for less than 4 days.
See separate entry for cryptosporidium or cyclospora stains. These tests must be requested separately.
Only one (1) faecal sample is required. It must be placed in the fixative contained in the faecal collection kit available from the laboratory.
Strongyloides culture
Pathologist approval is required for Strongyloides stercoralis culture. Phone the laboratory for special collection instructions. Specimens must be labelled URGENT and arrive in Microbiology within 1 hour of collection between 0800 and 1630. Do not refrigerate.
Duodenal aspirates must arrive in Microbiology within 1 hour of collection. Mark specimens URGENT. Do not refrigerate.
For Schistosoma haematobium in urine, collection of a whole void specimen taken anytime between 12 noon and 3pm in a container without preservatives is recommended. Peak egg excretion is between noon and 3 p.m.
Mark specimens URGENT.
Enterobius vermicularis (Pinworm)
The specimen should be obtained in the morning before showering or using the toilet. Take about 3 cm of transparent cellulose (sticky tape). With the sticky side outwards, press frimly against the perianal and perineal skin. Place the tape in a sealed specimen container. Eggs adhere to the cellulose tape and can be detected microscopically in the laboratory. |