Ova and Parasites, Stool
Main Content
Test Code: 681
CPT Code(s): 87177, 87209
Includes: Ova and Parasite Concentrate Result, Trichrome Result
Methodology: Microscopic Examination of Concentrate • Permanent Stained Smear
Reference Range(s): No ova and parasites seen
Clinical Significance: Diseases caused by human parasites remain on a worldwide basis among the principle causes of morbidity and mortality. Correct diagnosis of intestinal parasitic infection depends on proper collection, transport, detection and identification of parasites in stool specimens. Symptoms range from malaise to death. Treatment is dependent upon examining multiple stool specimens due to the erratic shed rates of some parasites.
Alternative Name(s): O and P with Permanent Stain
Supply: 170511 Total Fix
Preferred Specimen: 10 Grams or 10 ml fresh stool preserved in 10% formalin and polyvinyl alcohol transport or single Total-Fix transport vial
Interfering substances: Bismuth, Barium (wait 7-10 days), Antimicrobial Agents (wait 2 weeks), Gallbladder Dye (wait 3 weeks after procedure)
Instructions: Place fresh stool in single Total-Fix vial, as well as PVA transport medium or 10% formalin transport vial, within 30 minutes of collection. Add stool to bring the Liquid level to the “fill to here” line on the vial. Mix well. Send specimen(s) at room temperature in the same shipping container.
If parasite infestation is strongly suspected, collect at least 3 stool specimens every other day, since a single specimen can be negative. If Giardia is strongly suspected, please see Giardia Antigen, EIA, Stool, Test code 8625.
Transport container: Single Total-Fix transport vial, 10% Formalin and polyvinyl alcohol transport.
Transport temperature: Room temperature
- Room temperature: 6 months
- Refrigerated: not recommended
- Frozen: unacceptable
- Unpreserved stool
- Specimens containing barium
- Stool not preserved in 10% Formalin PVA Sodium acetate formalin (saf) Total-fix(r) Received frozen
- Stool submitted in expired transport vial
For additional supply or collection device information, please contact DLO's Customer Service at (800) 891-2917, option 2.
The CPT codes provided are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed.
CLIA