General instructions for stool collection

If you're going to have a test that requires collection of stools, we recommend read the following information carefully to ensure that the sample is obtained successfully, and the results are to be accurate and reliable. Follow the guidelines for preparation and collection will help you to avoid contamination and to ensure that the analysis accurately reflecting the source of your digestive symptoms.

PURPOSE

This test is requested to detect the presence of bacteria, viruses, parasites, antigens, or toxins that are most frequently cause diarrhoea and digestive symptoms in children, young people and adults.

TESTS THAT REQUIRE A SAMPLE OF STOOL

Stool culture
STUDY PARASITOLOGICAL
ANTIGEN OF GIARDIA LAMBLIA
ANTIGEN OF ROTAVIRUS AND ADENOVIRUS
TOXIN A/B of CLOSTRIDIUM DIFFICILE
THE DETECTION OF OCCULT BLOOD IN FECES
HELICOBACTER PYLORI IN STOOL
FECAL FAT ANALYSIS

PREPARATION

Download the PDF corresponding to your test at the bottom of the page.

Generally do not require any preparation the following tests, except that the prescribing physician indicates otherwise:

Stool culture
Study parasitological
Antigen of Giardia Lamblia
Antigen of Rotavirus and Adenovirus
Toxin A/B of Clostridium Difficile

The following tests do need a special preparation:

ANALYSIS FOR THE DETECTION OF OCCULT BLOOD IN FECES: To find out if there are small bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, it has a way to source ulcers, polyps or other lesions.
DETECTION OF HELICOBACTER PYLORI IN STOOL: To detect active infection by Helicobacter Pylori.
COLLECTION OF FAECES FOR ANALYSIS OF FATS: To quantify the fat content in the stool and be able to note the presence of Steatorrhea.

PROCEDURE

You will need a jar airtight closure for the collection of stool, sold in pharmacies.
The deposition must be performed on a wide-mouthed container type potty or wedge. It is not necessary that it is sterile, it is only necessary that it is clean and well clarified (must not contain traces of soaps, detergents or disinfectants).
Carefully transfer a amount of feces equivalent to the size of 2 nutsif the deposition is solid; if the deposition is liquid does not fill more than half the pot collection.
Avoid contamination with urine, toilet paper, and water, etc
Try take a sample to the laboratory as soon as possiblein the meantime, you can keep the sample at room temperature.