REPORTING: Organism Identification

Tips and Pitfalls!

1. If the O&P examination is performed, the report format should indicate that coccidia and the microsporidia will normally not be detected using the routine O&P.
2. If stool immunoassays are performed, it is important to indicate exactly what organisms were included [Giardia, Cryptosporidium, Giardia/Cryptosporidium combination, Entamoeba histolytica/E. dispar group, Entamoeba histolytica, or the cartridge formate (ColorPAC: Giardia, Cryptosporidium; BIOSITE: Giardia, Cryptosporidium, E. histolytica/E. dispar group)].
3. All report formats based on organism morphology should include the genus and species names. The stage of the parasite should also be included (Stool: trophozoite, cyst, oocyst, spore, egg, larvae; Blood: malaria stages, Babesia spp., trypomastigotes, amastigotes, microfilariae).
4. All test order formats (computer programs, hard copy orders, check off lists) should also be reviewed for accuracy and relevant information. It is very important that clients know what test is being ordered, what organisms are included and not included in that particular test, how the results will be reported, and what the report means.