MLT GlobeStool routine examination and ova & parasites
Urine & Stool · also called Stool R/E, Stool O&P
What it measures
Examines stool for colour, consistency, mucus, blood, pus cells, fat and parasites (ova, cysts, trophozoites). It is used for diarrhoea, dysentery and suspected worm infestation.
Specimen and preparation
- Specimen: Fresh stool
- Tube: Stool top
- Preparation: Clean dry container, no urine contamination; examine within 1 hour for trophozoites; repeat 3 samples on different days for parasites.
Reference range
| Group | Range |
|---|---|
| Consistency | Formed, brown |
| Pus cells | 0–2 /HPF |
| RBC | Nil /HPF |
| Ova, cysts, parasites | Not seen |
Reference ranges differ between laboratories, methods and populations. Always use the range printed on your own lab report.
Causes of high values
- Pus cells and RBCs: invasive bacterial dysentery or inflammatory bowel disease
- Trophozoites of E. histolytica or Giardia
- Helminth ova (Ascaris, hookworm, Trichuris, H. nana)
- Fat globules: malabsorption
Method
Macroscopic examination; saline and iodine wet mounts; concentration technique; modified acid-fast stain if needed
Good to know
Charcot-Leyden crystals suggest parasitic infection or eosinophilic inflammation.
Related tests
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