Stool analysis involves physical, chemical, and microscopic examination of feces.

It helps identify digestive abnormalities, infections, and bleeding sources.

Clinical uses include:

Detecting parasitic infections (e.g., Giardia, Entamoeba histolytica).

Identifying bacterial or viral gastroenteritis.

Evaluating malabsorption syndromes (e.g., celiac disease, pancreatic insufficiency).

Detecting occult blood (hidden bleeding in GI tract).

Assessing liver and pancreatic function through fat content.

Often performed alongside stool culture, occult blood test, and antigen detection assays.

Chemical: pH, reducing substances, occult blood.

Microscopic: Parasites, ova, cysts, bacteria, WBCs, RBCs, fat globules.

Normal Result: Normal color, formed consistency, no blood, no parasites, normal chemical balance.

Abnormal Findings:

Parasites/ova/cysts: Intestinal parasitic infection.

Occult blood: GI bleeding, ulcers, colorectal cancer.

Excess fat (steatorrhea): Malabsorption, pancreatic insufficiency.

Abnormal flora: Gastroenteritis or dysbiosis.

Clinical Use:

Provides a comprehensive evaluation of gastrointestinal health.

Helps guide diagnosis and treatment of infections, malabsorption, and GI bleeding.

Supports gastroenterology and infectious disease evaluations.