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Test Code
OP
Test Name
Ova and Parasite Exam
CPT Codes
87177, 87209
Included Tests
  • Concentrated Wet Prep
  • Trichrome Smear
Expected Turnaround Time
1 - 3 days
Clinical Utility
Parasitic diseases around the world have one of the highest morbidity and mortality rates. Proper diagnosis of intestinal parasitic infections relies on proper collection, transport, and identification of parasites in stool specimens. Because of the erratic way parasites are shed in the stool, it is important to submit multiple specimens.
Specimen and Container Info

Specimen

Container

Fresh Stool

Para- Pak® Container with 10% Formalin and Zn-PVA Fixative

Urine

Sterile Container

For additional information, see the Microbiology Specimen Collection Guide
Collection Instructions
  • The recommended screening procedure is two to three random stool specimens. One collected every other day.

Collection Instructions:

  1. Collect specimen in dry container.
  2. Use spoons attached to cap of parasitology tubes to transfer specimen into polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) for permanent stains and 10% formalin for concentration preparations and direct examination.
  3. Both vials should be filled from same bowel movement.
Processing and Submission Instructions
  • Do not submit more than two to three specimens per patient without prior consultation. There is limited yield provided by additional specimens.
  • Do not submit on inpatients after the fourth hospital day, without prior consultation.
Transport Instructions

 Transport to the laboratory at room temperature.

Stability Requirements

Room Temperature

  • Specimens must be transferred to the Para-Pak immediately following collection.
  • Specimens in Para-Pak are stable for 1 week.

Refrigerated

Unacceptable

Frozen

Unacceptable
Causes for Rejection

Specimens obtained with mineral oil, bismuth, iron, or magnesium compounds are not acceptable. Wait one week or more after barium procedures or barium laxatives before collecting stools for examination.
Methodology
Microscopic Examination
Limitations

Test does not look for Cryptosporidium, Cyclospora and Microsporidium.
Performing Location
Roble Road Core Laboratory
Alternate Names
  • Intestinal Parasite Exam
Testing Schedule
Routine, Monday-Friday - no holidays
The American Medical Association (AMA) Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes published by HNL Lab Medicine are guidelines and are intended for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the exclusive responsibility of the billing entity. View the Terms.
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