Stool Examination R/M
Understanding Stool Examination R/M
What is Stool Examination R/M?
The Stool Examination R/M test helps to detect and identify parasites, ova (eggs) and cysts of intestinal parasites in an individual's stool sample. This test examines the stool sample for blood, leucocytes or mucus in the stool sample which helps to identify problems in your digestive tract including infections, digestive disorders etc, and monitor overall gut health.
The Stool Examination R/M test is done to identify the specific cause of gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, unexplained weight loss, diarrhea, etc. It helps to diagnose conditions affecting the digestive tract, such as infection from parasites or other digestive disorders.
The Stool Examination R/M test examines the physical characteristics of the stool sample including color, consistency, odor, and the presence of mucus. It also includes a check for worms, eggs (or ova), and cysts of smaller parasites. It is usually prescribed if you’re experiencing symptoms associated with an intestinal infection, like the presence of blood or mucus in stool, fever, abdominal pain, and frequent diarrhea.
The Stool Examination R/M test is useful for identifying infections caused by parasites like Entamoeba histolytica and giardia. This test also identifies the presence of Red Blood cells and leukocytes in the stool sample. Red blood cells indicate the presence of lower gastrointestinal bleeding and the presence of leukocytes indicates bacterial infection.
No special preparation is required for this test. However, use the sample collection container provided by the laboratory personnel and ensure that the sample does not get contaminated with urine, water, or other substances. Inform your doctor about all the medications or supplements that you are taking, as certain medications or compounds will render the stool specimens unsatisfactory for examination. The specimens should be collected before these substances are administered, or collection must be delayed until after the effects have passed.
Lab test results may vary across laboratories. Do not self-medicate at home solely based on these test results and always consult your doctor for proper understanding of the test results. The insights from the Stool Examination R/M test will help doctors prescribe targeted treatments.
What is Stool Examination R/M used for?
The Stool Examination R/M test is done:
- To help find the cause of symptoms affecting the digestive tract such as prolonged diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, an increased amount of gas, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, bloating, belly pain and cramping, and fever.
- To screen for colon cancer by checking for visible blood or RBC in the stool. However, Stool for occult blood test is advised if cancer is suspected.
- To diagnose infections by parasites, such as Entamoeba histolytica or Giardia etc.
- To look for the cause of an infection.
What does Stool Examination R/M measure?
The stool routine test is performed on a stool sample to diagnose conditions affecting the digestive system. It provides a detailed evaluation of an individual’s stool to detect any abnormalities. This test can help diagnose gastrointestinal medical conditions such as parasitic infestations like intestinal amoebiasis, giardiasis, anal fissures, colon or gastric cancer, hemorrhoids, and more.
Interpreting Stool Examination R/M results
Interpretations
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High levels of fat in the stool may be caused by diseases such as pancreatitis, celiac disease, or other disorders that affect the absorption of fat
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The presence of ova in the stools indicate that there are parasites in the GIT
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White blood cells in the stool may be due to inflammation of the intestines such as ulcerative colitis
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Rotaviruses are a common cause of diarrhea in young children. If diarrhea is present, testing may be done to look for rotaviruses in the stool