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Microscopic
Examination - Ova and Parasite Examination
The microscopic
examination of the stool specimen, normally called the ova
and parasite examination, consists of three separate methods:
the direct wet smear (trophozoite motility), the concentration
(recover more organisms), and the permanent stained smear
(demonstrate detailed parasite morphology). Each of these
methods is designed for a particular purpose and forms an
integral part of the total examination.
| Many
laboratories receive preserved specimens from both inpatients
and outpatients. Because the preserved organisms will
no longer exhibit motility, the direct wet smear
is no longer considered a mandatory part of the routine
ova and parasite examination (on preserved specimens).
However, if fresh fecal specimens are delivered to the
laboratory, then the direct wet smear, particularly
on liquid stools, should be performed. It is NOT
necessary to perform a direct wet smear on fresh formed
specimens. |
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