Stool Examination: A laboratory test that analyzes stool samples to evaluate gastrointestinal health, diagnose infections, and detect abnormalities related to digestion and absorption.
Purpose: The stool examination is used to investigate symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, or changes in bowel habits. It helps diagnose conditions like infections, inflammatory bowel disease, and malabsorption syndromes.
Types of Analyses:
Microscopic Examination: Identifies the presence of pathogens (bacteria, parasites), white blood cells, or abnormal cells in the stool. This helps diagnose infections or inflammatory conditions.
Culture: Stool samples may be cultured to identify specific bacteria or fungi responsible for infections, enabling targeted treatment.
Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT): Detects hidden blood in the stool, which can indicate gastrointestinal bleeding or malignancy.
Fecal Fat Test: Measures the amount of fat in the stool, helping to diagnose malabsorption disorders.
Sample Collection: Patients are usually instructed to collect a sample of stool in a sterile container, ensuring proper technique to avoid contamination for accurate results.
Interpretation: Results can reveal the presence of infections, digestive issues, or signs of serious conditions like colorectal cancer. Abnormal findings may prompt further testing or evaluations.
Clinical Relevance: Stool examinations are vital in diagnosing and managing gastrointestinal disorders, guiding treatment decisions, and monitoring the effectiveness of therapies for various digestive diseases.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.
Be the first to review “Stool Examination” Cancel reply
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.