Parasitology Manual
Over 70 different species of parasites, belonging to two major
groups (Protozoa and Helminths), can be found in various parts
of the human body.
Parasitosis may result from exposure via one or more of the following
sources: 1) contaminated soil or water; 2) food containing the
immature infective stage of the parasite; 3) a blood sucking insect;
4) a domestic or wild animal harboring the parasite; 5) another
person, their clothing, bedding, or the immediate environment
that they have contaminated; or 6) oneself.
Competent laboratory work is dependent on several factors; 1)
satisfactory specimens; 2) safe and adequate facilities, including
a good quality microscope; 3) personnel trained in examining specimens
and accurately identifying organisms; and 4) personal trained
in safety and protection from stool, body fluid and blood-borne
pathogens (Universal Precautions).
The most common types of body material submitted for parasitology
examination are stools and blood, however other materials, such
as anal swabs, urines, aspirates, abscesses or respiratory specimens,
surgical specimens and biopsies may all be submitted in certain
cases.
Disclaimer:
These documents have been developed specifically
for our institutions and may not be appropriate for implementation
in other settings. This information is made available for professional
education purposes only and each piece of information should be
carefully evaluated before being adapted to meet the needs of other
facilities or settings.
