Page 220 - pathology_services_handbook_5th_edition_2018

4.3 Stool ova and cyst / FEME

HTAA, KUANTAN A. Specimen collection

i. Collect faeces in a clean wide-mouth container with tight fitting lid. Sample must
be at least 20 ml (liquid) or the size of 2 adults thumbs (solid).
ii. Label the container clearly and properly.
iii. Seal lid properly to avoid spillage during transportation.
iv. Place into biohazard plastic bag, with request form, send to laboratory
immediately.

Note:
• It is recommended that stool sample be sent 3 times (24 hours apart) between
3-10 days period if found negative.
• Make sure sample is not contaminated with water or urine.
• Certain drugs and compounds make the stool specimen unsatisfactory for
testing.
• Specimen must be collected before these substances are administrated or
delay collection until after the effects have passed.
• Substances include : antacids, kaolin, mineral oil and other oily materials, non-
absorbableanti diarrheal preparations ,anti malarial drugs, barium/ bismuth
(7-10 days needed for clearance effect) antibiotics(2-3 weeks) and gallbladder
dyes (3 weeks).

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