STOOL ANALYSIS

Stool sample for analysis

Stool sample for analysis

Introduction

Stool analysis is a series of tests performed on a sample of stool (feces) to help in diagnosing certain conditions that affect the digestive tract. These conditions may include poor nutrient absorption, infection (such as from viruses, bacteria, or parasites), or cancer.

For stool analysis, a sample of stool collects in a clean container and then sends to the laboratory for test. Laboratory analysis includes chemical tests, microscopic examination and microbiology tests. The stool is also checking for consistency, color, volume (weight), odor, shape, and the presence of mucus. The stool may be examined for fat, hidden (occult) blood, meat fibers, white blood cells, bile and sugars called reducing substances. For the test, pH level of the stool may also be measured. A stool culture is performing to find out that infection and determine whether it is caused by bacteria or not.

According to Dowshen S., stool may be tested for the presence of ova and parasites (Dowshen S., 2011, n.d.).

Discussion

What is a stool sample?

Stool is the solid body's waste that leaves the body as a bowel movement through the rectum. Stool is mainly composes of undigested food, but it also includes mucus, dead cells and bacteria. Stool should be soft so that it can easily pass through the rectum.

When and why take a stool sample

The conditions in which we have to take stool for stool analysis is depending on test recommended by the doctor. In most cases, doctor takes the sample of stool for test. However, the stool analysis is typically performed for the following reasons:

It Help in identifying diseases of the liver, digestive tract, and pancreas. Certain enzymes (such as elastase or trypsin) in the stool may be evaluated to help to determine how well the pancreas of the patient is functioning.

It is helpful to find the cause of symptoms affecting the digestive tract, including bloody diarrhea, an increased amount of gas, prolonged diarrhea, nausea, loss of appetite, bloating, vomiting, abdominal pain, fever and cramping.

By checking for hidden (occult) blood it is helpful to screen for colon cancer.

To check for parasites, such as Giardia lamblia or pinworms.

To look for the cause of an infection, such as a fungus, bacteria, or a virus.

By the digestive tract (malabsorption syndrome) it is helpful to check for poor absorption of nutrients.

For this test, stool is collected over a 72-hour period and then checked for the meat fibers and ...