| (Microbiology) |
| Investigations | Microscopic examination for Enterobious vermicularis ova Enterobius vermicularis (thread or pin worm) is an intestinal parasite which causes perianal and perineal pruritis mainly in children. It has worldwide distribution. The female of the species deposits the ova on the skin in the anal area of the infected person during the night from where the ova may be collected. |
Inform lab before sending | No | Specimen type | PERIANAL SWAB (Preferred) or SELLOTAPE SLIDE | Ideal time to take specimen | Early morning, as during the night is when the ova are deposited | Labelling requirements | click here | How to take the specimen | PERIANAL SWAB (Preferred) SELLOTAPE SLIDE A piece of clear sellotape that has been placed around the area of the anus on the skin. Place sellotape so that it sticks flatly to a clean glass microscope slide and place in a slide box for transport. |
Transport to the laboratory | As soon as possible. If transport is delayed then refrigerate. Delays of over 48hrs are undesirable | Test Times | Monday to Friday | Turnround | 24 hours-excluding weekends | Additional information | It is important to provide full clinical details |
| Additional Examination Requests |