Stool Routine Examination

Stool Routine Examination

What it is

The Stool Routine Examination is a comprehensive test that analyzes a stool (feces) sample to evaluate digestive health, detect infections, and identify gastrointestinal disorders. It includes both macroscopic (color, consistency, presence of blood/mucus) and microscopic (parasites, ova, cysts, pus cells, red blood cells) examination. The test may also include chemical tests such as pH, reducing substances, and occult blood.

Uses

This test is used to:

• Diagnose gastrointestinal infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites.
• Identify intestinal worms, ova, or cysts.
• Detect bleeding in the digestive tract.
• Assess causes of chronic diarrhea, constipation, or abdominal pain.
• Evaluate digestive disorders such as malabsorption syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
• Monitor response to treatment for GI infections or parasitic infestations.

Symptoms / Conditions That May Lead to the Test

Doctors may recommend this test if you have:

• Persistent diarrhea or constipation.
• Abdominal pain, cramps, or bloating.
• Blood, mucus, or pus in the stool.
• Unexplained weight loss or nutritional deficiencies.
• Fever and gastrointestinal symptoms suggesting infection.
• Suspected parasitic infestation (e.g., giardiasis, amoebiasis, helminths).

Abnormal Results

• Presence of Ova, Cysts, or Parasites: Indicates intestinal parasitic infection.
• Red Blood Cells (RBCs): May suggest bleeding due to ulcers, hemorrhoids, colorectal cancer, or IBD.
• Pus Cells or Mucus: Suggests infection or inflammation in the intestines.
• Abnormal pH or Reducing Substances: May indicate malabsorption or carbohydrate intolerance.
• Positive Occult Blood: Suggests hidden bleeding in the GI tract.

Results are interpreted along with symptoms, diet, and other diagnostic tests for accurate diagnosis.

Risks

The test involves providing a stool sample and carries no direct risks. However:

• Improper sample collection may affect accuracy.
• Delay in testing may allow bacterial overgrowth or sample degradation.