Turnaround times
The quoted turnaround time is from sample receipt in the laboratory, to results authorisation in the Laboratory Information Management system. The times do not include transport of specimen to the laboratory or the administrative process to print and post/email reports. Service users must allow for transport and reporting time when ordering tests.
Clinical background:
Although faecal specimens are the most commonly received samples for the detection of parasites, they may also be detected in a variety of other clinical specimens submitted to the laboratory e.g. terminal urine.
Specimen container paediatric:
Scoop faeces in to Universal using integrated spoon. For schistosomiasis investigations please send a 24hr terminal urine sample.
Specimen container adult:
Scoop faeces in to Universal using integrated spoon. For schistosomiasis investigations please send a 24hr terminal urine sample.
Minimum volume paediatric:
Submit 3 pea sized samples in a 10 day period. Samples dated the same day will be processed as one specimen.
Minimum volume adult:
Submit 3 pea sized samples in a 10 day period. Samples dated the same day will be processed as one specimen.
Special requirements:
Send to laboratory as quickly as possible. If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C. Ideally three stool specimens should be collected over no more than a 10-day period. It is usually recommended that specimens are collected every other day.
Hot stools are required for investigation of amoebae.
Sample stability:
Stable for up to 24 hrs except for hot stools.
Transport requirements:
Standard
Add on test:
Samples with insufficient/inappropriate clinical details will be stored for 7 days. OCP test will be performed if additional information is provided. Where OCP is not originally requested this test can be added on up to 3 days.
Quality assurance:
UK National External Quality Assurance Scheme (UKNEQAS).
Interpretation:
Interpretative comments are added to reports where applicable.
Reference ranges:
N/A
Factors affecting result:
If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C.
Referenced documents:
Standards of Microbiology Investigations (SMI B 31)
Other Info:
N/A