STOOL EXAMINATION, ROUTINE; STOOL, R/E

The routine stool examination studies a stool sample under the microscope for intestinal parasites, their eggs (ova) and cysts, pus cells, red blood cells and undigested food particles. It is the basic test doctors use when a stomach or intestinal infection — or a worm infestation — is suspected.

Many gut infections and all common intestinal worms shed detectable traces in the stool. Finding ova, cysts or specific cells tells the doctor which organism is involved, so treatment can be targeted instead of guessed. The test is simple, completely non-invasive and inexpensive, which is why it is often the first step for persistent digestive complaints.

When do doctors advise this test?

• Prolonged diarrhoea, loose motions or dysentery that is not settling
• Recurring abdominal pain, cramps or bloating
• Suspected worm infestation — common in children and a frequent cause of poor appetite
• Blood or mucus noticed in the stool
• Digestive complaints with unexplained weight loss or weakness

Preparation & the sample

No fasting is needed. Collect about 5 grams of stool (roughly a spoonful) in the leak-proof screw-capped container provided — never in a matchbox, paper or polythene, as the laboratory cannot accept unsealed samples. Collect from a clean, dry surface and avoid mixing the sample with urine or toilet water. Close the container tightly and deliver it to the centre the same day. Note that outstation stool samples are not accepted. Call +91 9451155402 for a container or a home collection.

This information is educational and general. Your doctor's advice for your specific situation always comes first.