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ADDRESS
Sanford Laboratories
PO Box 5056
Sioux Falls, SD 57117-5056
PHONE
605-328-5464
800-522-2561
FAX
605-328-5434
E-MAIL
E-mail Sanford Laboratories
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| Parasite Specimen Collection |
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INTESTINAL PARASITE COLLECTION
To assure recovery of parasites that are passed intermittently, three specimens collected at one-day intervals are recommended. Examination for parasites should precede radiological examination using barium sulfate. Following barium examinations, it is recommended that specimens should not be collected until the stool returns to normal color. Avoid contamination with urine or water.
MALARIA SMEARS FOR PLASMODIUM
The diagnosis of malaria can be aided by finding and identifying the specific malaria parasite in the blood. Thick smears stained with Geimsa Stain aid in the detection of the parasites, whereas thin smears stained with Wright's Stain are required for morphological examination. At least 3 smears should be prepared of BOTH types of slide for each patient. - Slides may be made from a fingerstick or venipuncture. If using a syringe, make the smears from the end of the needle (no anticoagulant).
- Prepare at least 3 thin blood smears as you would the traditional blood smear for differential.
- Make at least 3 thick smears by placing a drop of blood on a slide, spread out to the size of a dime, and at a thickness through which newsprint can be read.
- Allow thick slides to air-dry in a dust-free area for 8-12 hours or overnight.
NOTE: Obtain information from the patient about travel outside of the United States, where and when. Also inquire if the patient is taking medication. The usual malaria incubation time is 1-3 weeks, although several strains have much longer incubation periods. For best results, specimens should be collected during the 10-12 hours after a chill.
PINWORM COLLECTION
Pinworm collection kits (paddle) are available from our Supplies Department. Specimen should be obtained before therapy has begun. Note on the requisition if therapy has been initiated prior to specimen collection. Optimal specimen is obtained by separating the buttocks and pressing the sticky surface of the paddle against several areas of the perianal region. Because of the migratory habits of the female pinworm, specimens are best obtained a few hours after the person has retired, between 9 p.m. and midnight; or in the morning before rising, bathing, or a bowel movement. Specimens should be refrigerated if examination is delayed more than one day.
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