Isospora Smear Test

Isospora smear or Cryptospora smear test is done for detection of Cyclospora in the gastrointestinal tract or intestinal epithelium. They are protozoans that complete a life cycle in the tracts or tissues of human host. They are responsible for persistent diarrhea in at least 50% of the HIV- infected people. They cause chronic watery diarrhea in HIV patients that leads to malabsorption, malnutrition, dehydration, and cachexia. It is diagnosed by identification of oocyst by examining a stool sample under a microscope.

No special preparation is required for the test. Consult your doctor if you are on a medication as the stool sample might get affected by those medications.

The Isospora smear test is used to detect the presence of Isospora in the tract or tissue of human host. They are mostly present in HIV patients and thus their detection can help in diagnosis of AIDS.

You will be given a container by the doctor for the stool sample collection. Collect the sample in the container and return to the doctor soon after the collection. The sample is now taken to the lab for testing.