Importance of Examination of Feces in the Diagnosis of Intestinal Parasites - A Review

Authors

Dr. Rinkal N. Nakawala MD

Associate Professor in Roganidana Department, Shree O.H. Nazar Ayurveda College, Surat (Gujarat) (India)

Article Information

DOI: 10.51584/IJRIAS.2026.110400078

Subject Category: Health Science

Volume/Issue: 11/4 | Page No: 1133-1137

Publication Timeline

Submitted: 2026-04-04

Accepted: 2026-04-14

Published: 2026-05-08

Abstract

The stool exam is a crucial diagnostic tool for identifying intestinal parasites. It is a non-invasive procedure that involves analyzing a stool sample to detect the presence of parasites, their eggs, or larvae. This test is particularly important for diagnosing infections caused by organisms such as Giardia, Entamoeba histolytica, and various types of worms. Common gastrointestinal infections are reported as food poisoning or stomach infections. The stool exam is also vital for early detection, which can prevent complications like dehydration and severe nutrient deficiencies. It plays a significant role in public health, allowing healthcare provides to tract outbreaks and implement preventive measures. The test’s accuracy and reliability have been enhanced by advances in laboratory techniques, including stool microscopy and molecular testing.

Keywords

Intestinal parasites, stool examination, diagnosis, parasite

Downloads

References

1. Essential of clinical pathology by Shirish M Kawthalkar 3rd edition 2025 :127-143 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

2. Dash N,Panigrahi D. Prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections 2010;2(1):21024 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

3. Cartwright CP. Utility of multiple-stool-specimen ova and parasite examination in a high-prevalence setting. J Clin Microbiol. 1999;37 (8):2408-2411 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

4. Sawitz WG, Faust EC. The probability of detecting intestinal protozoa by successive stool examination 1942;22(2):131-136 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

5. Nazer H, Greer W, Donnelly K,et al. The need for three stool specimens in routine laboratory examinations for intestinal parasites. Br J clinical pract. 1993;47(2):76-78 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

6. Silvesti C, Greganti, G, Arzeni D, et Intestinal parasitosis : data analysis 2006-2011 Infez med 2013;21(1):34-39 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

7. Thomson RB Jr, Haas RA, Intestinal parasites: the necessity pf examining multiple stool specimens. Mayo Clin. Proc. 1984;59(9):641-642 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

8. Boonjaraspinyo S, Boonmars T. A cross-sectional study on intestinal parasitic infection in rural communities, 2013;51(6):7272-734 [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

Metrics

Views & Downloads

Similar Articles