Fecal Exams (not done)

Why do we conduct fecal exams?

To diagnosis parasitic infections where the diagnostic stage is passed in the feces

Prevent zoonotic parasites

The validity of the fecal exam is dependent on the BLAN, the type of BLANK, the BLANK of the flotation solution, and the BLANK of the person conducting the test

The validity of the fecal exam is dependent on the PROCEDURE, the type of FLOATATION SOLUTION, the SPECIFIC GRAVITY of the floatation solution, and the TRAINING of the person conducting the test

What are the two steps of a fecal exam?

Gross exam (characteristics of feces that should be recorded)

Microscopic exam

How should a microscopic fecal exam go?

Adequate sample

Conduct the proper test

Examine carefully and systematically

Develop standard procedures

If negative report as no parasites seen or observed

What is the least sensitive type of fecal exam?

Direct smear

How do you do a direct smear fecal exam?

Spread a small amount of feces on a glass slide and mix with saline or water then observe

When is a direct smear useful?

For parasitic protozoa that have motile trophozoite stages

What is the limitations of the direct smear?

Small sample size

• If nothing is found it means little

• It one or more is found it doesnt meant there arent more