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Sputum
Specimens
Microscopic examination of sputum is used in identifying Paragonimus
westermani eggs, Strongyloides stercoralis larvae, Ascaris
lumbricoides larvae, hookworm larvae, and rarely Entamoeba histolytica.
Sputum should be obtained from the lower respiratory passages rather than
a sample consisting mainly of saliva. Sputum specimens should be
collected first thing in the morning. A sputum sample can be examined
in several ways:
- The unfixed specimen may be centrifuged and then the sediment examined
as a direct wet mount.
- If the sputum is too viscous, an equal volume of 3% sodium hydroxide
may be added, then centrifuge, and examine the sediment.
- The specimen may be preserved in 10% formalin and a formalin-ethyl
acetate concentration procedure may be completed and the sediment examined
using either a wet mount or a stained preparation.
- The specimen may also be preserved in PVA if protozoa are suspected
and stained with trichrome stain.
For additional
information about sputum specimens, call the Division of Parasitic Diseases,
at 770-488-4474.
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