Test Directory
Faeces - Routine M, C & S
Containers - Adult
20ml Universal Stool Container
|
Volume Range
2-3ml
Additive per Container
NONE |
Containers - Child
|
20ml Universal Stool Container
|
Volume Range
As adult |
Laboratory Site
Old Dalkeith Road
Edinburgh
EH16 4SA
Howden
Livingston
West Lothian
EH54 6PP
Transport arrangements
Transport as soon as is practicable.
Sample storage arrangements
If delay in transporting, store in the fridge (4-6°C).
Special instructions for collection
How to request
Via Trak (For RIE/WGH select: "Faeces - Micro ADULT WGH/RIE only", for SJH...), via request form or via GP comms. If requiring ova, cysts and parasites, please state request in clinical details and ensure symptoms and travel history included.
Availability
0900-1800 (RIE). 0900-1700 (SJH).
Anticipated turnaround
5 - 12 days, depending on clinical details.
What happens if the result is positive or abnormal
Telephoned by microbiologist.
General additional information
For ova, cysts and parasites (OCP) testing:
RIE and WGH: PCR for Giardia lamblia, Entamoeba histolytica and Cryptosporidium is performed on stools requesting microscopy. Further microscopy based investigation is performed for other parasites based on clinical details given.
SJH: Investigation for OCP is based on clinical details and is performed by microscopy only. PCR will be performed on any sample where mention of amoebic dysentery is made, and on specific request. PCR is carried out at the RIE site but can be requested from SJH laboratory when required.
All diarrhoeal stools from patients ≥3 years old will automatically be tested for Clostridioides difficile toxin.