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Worm Egg Count in Stool (Qualitative) with Permount Mounting

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

This test checks for the presence of parasitic worm eggs in your stool, using a microscopic examination of a prepared sample. It helps identify infections caused by intestinal worms.

Quick summary

["A simple stool test to detect worm eggs that may indicate an infection."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14790-0
Short code
Worm Spec Perm Mount
Synonyms
Worm Spec Perm Mount
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
perm-mount
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 involves collecting a sample of your stool and preparing it with a mounting medium (Permount) to enhance microscopic visibility. Microscopic examination looks for any visible worm eggs or ova, which can confirm a parasitic infection.

Why It Matters in Diagnosis

Detecting worm eggs early can help prevent complications like malnutrition, anemia, or intestinal blockages. It’s often used in routine health checks, especially in areas with higher risk of parasitic infections.

Sample Collection and Preparation

You’ll provide a fresh stool sample in a provided container. The lab technician will process it to concentrate any worm eggs and mount it under a microscope for detailed examination.

Common Uses and Who Needs It

Doctors may recommend this test if you have symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, or if you live in regions with higher worm infection rates. It’s also part of general health screenings for children or travelers to endemic areas.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Worm Egg Screening (Qualitative)

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results from this test?
Results typically arrive within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your healthcare provider will discuss the findings with you during your follow-up visit.
What if the test is positive for worm eggs?
A positive result suggests a parasitic infection. Your doctor will likely prescribe appropriate anti-parasitic medication and may recommend retesting after treatment to confirm clearance of the infection.
Can I eat or drink before giving the stool sample?
Yes, you can eat and drink normally before providing the sample. Avoid using laxatives or enemas unless instructed by your doctor, as they may alter the stool consistency and affect test accuracy.
  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