Entamoeba histolytica stool antigen detection by nucleic acid probe

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may recommend this test if you’ve had symptoms like persistent diarrhea, abdominal cramps, or blood in your stool, especially after traveling to areas with higher parasite risk. It’s also used to confirm a diagnosis if other tests were inconclusive or if you’ve had recurrent infections.

How the Test Works

A small sample of your stool is collected and analyzed using a specialized probe that targets the parasite’s DNA. This method is highly sensitive and can detect even small amounts of the parasite’s genetic material.

Sample Collection and Preparation

You’ll need to provide a fresh stool sample (collected in a sterile container) on the day of testing. Avoid using commercial collection kits unless instructed by your healthcare provider, as some may interfere with the test’s accuracy.

What to Expect After Testing

Results are typically ready within 24–48 hours. If the test is positive, it confirms the presence of *Entamoeba histolytica* and guides treatment. A negative result means the parasite wasn’t detected in this sample, but it doesn’t rule out infection entirely—retesting may be needed if symptoms persist.