Stool Worm and Insect Egg Count (Qualitative)
This test checks for the presence of eggs or larvae from parasites like worms or insects in your stool. It helps identify infections that may require treatment.
["A simple stool test to detect parasitic infections that could affect your health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 14788-4
- Short code
- Worm+Insect Spec Rearing/Cult
- Synonyms
- Worm+Insect Spec Rearing/Cult
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 17
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- rearing-culture
- 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 looks for eggs or larval stages of common intestinal parasites, such as those from roundworms, tapeworms, pinworms, or other soil-transmitted helminths. It does not measure parasite activity or quantity but confirms their presence.
Why It’s Done
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, or if you’ve traveled to areas with higher parasite risks. It’s also used as a screening tool for children or individuals in high-risk groups.
Sample Collection
You’ll need to provide a fresh stool sample (usually collected in a special container) to ensure the test detects eggs or larvae accurately. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for proper sample handling.
What to Expect After the Test
Results are typically ready within a few days. If parasites are found, your doctor will discuss next steps, which may include medication or further testing. Follow-up may be needed to confirm treatment effectiveness.
Reference range
NCBI: NSE 0-17 ng/mLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results indicate a parasitic infection that could cause malnutrition, chronic diarrhea, or other health issues. Early treatment prevents complications and improves recovery. Negative results mean no parasites were detected in this sample, but infections can sometimes be intermittent, so retesting may be advised.
Short name
Worm/Insect Egg Screening
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I take antibiotics before the test?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy