Entamoeba histolytica and Entamoeba dispar Identification

Identification of Entamoeba histolytica and Entamoeba dispar

Human Stool Sample

Human stool sample may be fresh or in transport media such as Cary-Blair. Samples in fixatives containing formalin, such as SAF are not accepted.

Samples contained in a leak-proof container with sample number on the tube and any identifying patient information removed. Preferred minimum sample size is 1 gram. Samples may be frozen on dry ice or refrigerated on wet ice. Repeated freeze-thaws should be avoided if possible.

Shipping of specimens shall be done by a TDG certified individual in accordance with TDG regulations. For additional information regarding classification of specimens for the purposes of shipping, consult either Part 2 Appendix 3 of the TDG Regulations or section 3.6.2 of the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations as applicable.

Gastroenteritis, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, fever. May be asymptomatic.

Completed Parasite Genomics Unit requisition form.

Samples in fixatives containing formalin, such as SAF, are not accepted.

Molecular identification by qPCR as per: Forsell J, Koskiniemi S, Hedberg I, Edebro H, Evengård B, Granlund M. Evaluation of factors affecting real-time PCR performance for diagnosis of Entamoeba histolytica and Entamoeba dispar in clinical stool samples. J Med Microbiol. 2015 Sep;64(9):1053-1062. doi: 10.1099/jmm.0.000129.

7 calendar days. Note: Turnaround times for routine isolates may be extended during outbreak activities or due to limited availability of resources.