Test Directory

• Cyclospora Examination
• Isospora Examination
• Concentration

Cyclospora cayetanensis and Isospora belli are coccidian parasites which cause malaise, low grade fever, and diarrhea. Fatigue, anorexia, vomiting, myalgia and weight loss occur. The clinical presentation for those patients infected with either disease is similar.

Specimen Type: Preserved Stool

Collection Container: Pink Para- Pak with 10% formalin

Alternate Collection Container: Total Fix Transport Vial (Black Top)

Desired Specimen Volume: 10 g or 10 mL

1. Collect random stool in a sterile container.

1. Transfer stool within 30 minutes of collection into a suitable vial.
2. Fill to the line on the transport vial.
3. Label specimen with a room temperature sticker.
4. Sample should not be shared with other testing to avoid improper specimen handling and prolonged TAT.
5. This test is critical room temperature.

Stool must not contain residual barium from diagnostic tests.

Transport to the laboratory at room temperature.

• Unpreserved stool
• Stool specimens preserved in transport media not listed as acceptable

See patient report.

Due to intermittent shedding, one negative sample does not necessarily rule out the presence of a parasitic infection.