Test Code OVPA Ova and Parasite Examination, Feces
Performing Laboratory
Mayo Clinic Laboratories in Rochester
Reference Values
No parasitic forms seen.
Methodology
Concentration Sediment / Trichrome Stain
Note: Effective June 2006, testing protocol was changed and Giardia and Cryptosporidium Antigen by EIA replaces Ova and Parasite Examination, except for patients presenting with the following risk factors:
1. Travel to a developing country or travel outside North America.
2. Residence or recent immigration from a developing country.
3. Immunosuppression.
4. Persistent, undiagnosed diarrhea.
Please indicate risk factor(s) with order.
Specimen Requirements
Note:
- Patient should avoid antibiotics, kaolin compounds, bismuth and barium X-rays for 7 to 10 days prior to collection.
- For maximum recovery, submit 3 specimens over a 7 day period with a minimum of 24 hours between specimens.
- For pinworm detection, see PINWM “Pinworm Perianal Swab.”
- Specimen may also be used for GIAR “Giardia Antigen Detection, Feces”; CRYPAG “Cryptosporidium Antigen Detection”; and GIACRY “Giardia/Cryptosporidium Antigen, Feces”; however, specific orders must be submitted.
1. Collect 10 g of stool in a clean, dry, wide-mouth container.
2. Stool contaminated with urine and water is not acceptable.
3. Label container with patient's name (first and last), date of birth, date and actual time of collection and type of specimen.
4.. Forward promptly to the laboratory; within 2 hours of collection.
Day(s) Test Set Up
Monday through Friday
Test Classification and CPT Coding
87177 - parasitic exam
88312 - trichrome stain