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Colonoscopy with Stool Sample Analysis for Microscopic Examination (Microscopic Examination of Stool)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test involves examining a sample of your stool under a microscope to look for abnormal cells, parasites, or signs of infection.

Quick summary

["Microscopic stool analysis helps diagnose digestive issues or infections that standard tests may miss."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
97100-2
Short code
Colonoscopy+US Study
Synonyms
Colonoscopy+US Study
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
colonoscopy-us
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Measures

The test checks for the presence of white blood cells, red blood cells, parasites, bacteria, or other microscopic organisms in your stool. These can indicate conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, infections, or other gastrointestinal problems.

Common Uses and Why It’s Done

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like persistent diarrhea, unexplained weight loss, blood in your stool, or if they suspect a parasitic infection, microscopic blood loss, or other hidden gastrointestinal issues.

Sample Collection

You’ll need to provide a fresh stool sample, ideally collected at home or during a colonoscopy. The sample is then sent to the lab for microscopic examination.

Preparation and Timing

No special preparation is needed beyond collecting the sample as directed. Results may take a few days to a week, depending on lab workload.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Stool Microscopy

Frequently asked questions

This test is crucial for diagnosing conditions like amoebiasis, giardiasis, or microscopic hematuria (blood in stool not visible to the naked eye). It can also help confirm or rule out infections or inflammatory processes in the digestive tract.
How long will I wait for results?
Results are typically available within 1 to 7 business days, depending on the lab’s processing schedule. Your healthcare provider will contact you once they are ready.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result may indicate an infection (e.g., parasites, bacteria), inflammation, or other microscopic abnormalities. Your doctor will discuss findings and next steps based on your symptoms and test results.
Yes, you can eat and drink normally before collecting the stool sample. Avoid using stool softeners or laxatives unless instructed otherwise, as they may affect the analysis.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy