Ova and Parasite Exam, Fecal (Immunocompromised or Travel History)
Also known as: OP FEC
Use
The Ova and Parasite Exam, Fecal is intended for patients with compromised immune systems or travel histories where parasitic infections are suspected. It aids in the diagnosis of parasitic infections by detecting the presence of ova and parasites in stool samples. This test is particularly beneficial for patients experiencing persistent diarrhea lasting more than 14 days. It is crucial for guiding treatment decisions, especially when specific pathogen testing is recommended if a parasitic infection is suspected.
Special Instructions
Specimens to assess treatment efficacy should be collected three to four weeks after therapy completion. Antibiotics may impact test results. Collect three separate stool samples within a 5-7 day period; each requires an individual order. Stool samples should be transferred into AlcorFix, 10 percent formalin, and modified PVA within one hour of collection.
Limitations
A single negative test result does not exclude the possibility of parasitic infection due to varying parasite shedding cycles. The examination does not specifically detect Cryptosporidium, Cyclospora, Cystoisospora, and Microsporidia. Rectal swabs, unpreserved samples, SAF, and any mercury-containing PVA fixative (like LV-PVA) are unacceptable. Specimens containing barium, bismuth, or urine are also rejected.
New York Approved
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 10704-5
Result Turnaround Time
3-7 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Stool
Volume
2 g
Minimum Volume
1 g
Container
AlcorFix
Collection Instructions
Transfer stool to AlcorFix within one hour of collection. Alternate preservation: 10 percent formalin and modified PVA.
Causes for Rejection
Rectal swabs, unpreserved specimens, SAF, LV-PVA, multiple specimens within 24 hours, samples with barium, bismuth, or urine.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 9 months |
| Refrigerated | 9 months |
| Frozen | Unacceptable |
Other tests from different labs that may be relevant