MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Fecal smear

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Fecal smear

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Alternative names Definition How the test is performed How to prepare for the test How the test will feel	Why the test is performed Normal Values What abnormal results mean What the risks are Special considerations

Illustrations

Lower digestive anatomy

Alternative names Return to top

Stool smear

Definition Return to top

Fecal smear is a laboratory test to screen the feces for organisms that can cause gastrointestinal symptoms and diseases.

How the test is performed Return to top

Adults and children:
There are many ways to collect the samples. You can catch the stool on plastic wrap that is loosely placed over the toilet bowl and held in place by the toilet seat. Then, put the sample in a clean container. One test kit supplies a special toilet tissue that you use to collect the sample, then put the sample in a clean container.

Infants and young children:
For children wearing diapers, line the diaper with plastic wrap. If the plastic wrap is positioned properly, isolating the stool from any urine output, mixing of urine and stool can be prevented for a better sample.

A small amount of a feces sample is applied to a microscope slide and examined for the presence of abnormal organisms. A stain may be applied that highlights certain organisms under the microscope.

How to prepare for the test Return to top

A collection container will be provided for the stool specimen. Return the sample to the laboratory as soon as possible. The sample should not include toilet tissue or urine.

How the test will feel Return to top

There is no discomfort.

Why the test is performed Return to top

The test is performed as a screening tool to detect the presence of abnormal organisms in the gastrointestinal tract. It may be performed if severe, persistent, or recurrent diarrhea of an unknown cause is present. The results can be used to determine antibiotic therapy.

Normal Values Return to top

Normal intestinal organisms are present.

What abnormal results mean Return to top

Abnormal intestinal organisms may indicate a gastrointestinal infection.

What the risks are Return to top

There are no risks.

Special considerations Return to top

Other tests may indicate more specific causes of infection.

Update Date: 1/26/2004

Updated by: Daniel Levy, M.D., Ph.D., Infectious Diseases, Greater Baltimore Medical Center, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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