Cryptosporidium RNA, Stool, Qualitative (PCR)
This test checks for the presence of Cryptosporidium parasites in your stool, which can cause gastrointestinal infections.
["A positive result may indicate an infection needing medical evaluation or treatment."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 100870-5
- Short code
- Cryptosp 18S rRNA Spec-Geno
- Synonyms
- Cryptosp 18S rRNA Spec-Geno
- Category
- coagulation
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- molgen
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- 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
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like persistent diarrhea, stomach cramps, or weight loss—especially if you’ve traveled to areas with poor sanitation or have a weakened immune system. They might also order it if you’re suspected of having a parasitic infection after exposure to contaminated water or food.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. Bring a fresh stool sample to your appointment. If you’re using a collection kit, follow the instructions provided to ensure accuracy. Avoid delaying the test if symptoms are severe.
What the Results Mean
A positive result means Cryptosporidium parasites were detected in your stool, suggesting an infection. A negative result means no parasites were found in this sample, but you may still need further testing or monitoring if symptoms persist. Follow-up may include additional stool tests or medical evaluation.
Common Symptoms of Infection
Cryptosporidium infections often cause watery diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting. Symptoms can last weeks or months, especially in people with weakened immune systems. Some people may not have any symptoms at all.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Cryptosporidium Stool PCR
Frequently asked questions
This test helps diagnose cryptosporidiosis, a common cause of watery diarrhea in people with compromised immune systems (e.g., HIV/AIDS) or those with chronic illnesses like diabetes or kidney disease. Early identification is important to guide treatment and prevent spread.
Can this test be done at home? No, this test requires a lab sample collected in a sterile container. Your healthcare provider will provide instructions if you need to use a home collection kit.
Is this test covered by insurance? Check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage, as costs and requirements may vary.
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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