Note: This is a home collection test kit that will be mailed to you.
Fasting Required: No
Specimen: Stool
Special Instructions:
Ship to lab Monday-Thursday only.
If you are taking antifungal or antibiotic medications, please finish the course of medication, and then wait three days before starting this collection. Please refrain from taking digestive enzymes, antacids, and aspirin for two weeks prior to and during the specimen collection, unless otherwise instructed by your physician.
This is a 3 day stool collection. Specimen does not have to be collected on consecutive days. It is preferable, but not necessary, to collect on consecutive days but the final collection must be made within seven days of the first.
Please note: Parasites do not drop with every stool passing.
Results: 7-10 Business Days
Description:
Signs and symptoms of parasitic infection vary from one individual to another.
The more common signs and symptoms are: constipation, diarrhea, bloating, gas, symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, arthralgias, myalgias, anemia, increased allergic reactions, skin lesions, agitation and anxiety, difficulty sleeping, decreased energy, malnutrition and decreased immune function.
Infection can occur by four different pathways. These routes include:
- Contaminated food or water
- Insect vectors
- Sexual contact
- Passage through the skin and nose
Most people are inclined to believe that parasitic infection is a rare and exotic occurrence, limited to those who have traveled to distant, tropical lands. However, there has been an increase in the incidence of parasitic infection in this country. These may include:
- Contamination of the water supply
- Increased use of daycare centers
- Increased travel to, and visits from, countries where parasitic infection is endemic
- Household pets
- Consumption of exotic and uncooked foods
- Antibiotic use
- Changing sexual partners
Note: Result turnaround times are an estimate and are not guaranteed. Our reference lab may need additional time due to weather, holidays, confirmation/repeat testing, or equipment maintenance.