Parasite testing in adults is a reliable way to detect intestinal and other forms of helminthic infestations. Based on the results obtained during the research, the specialist prescribes suitable methods of treatment.
Get tested for parasites regularly, not when symptoms indicate the presence of worms. Similar studies are necessary for both children and adults.
Basic ways
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The traditional way to detect worms in humans is to analyze feces. During the study, specialists examine a fragment of feces for the presence of parasite eggs. To obtain the most reliable results, at least 2-4 studies are carried out with an interval of several days.
It makes it possible to identify parasites such as:
- nematodes, or roundworms;
- tapeworms (cestodes);
- trematodes (flukes).
This analysis for parasites, being quite simple, cannot claim the reliability of the results.
To obtain a reliable result, it is desirable to deliver a stool sample to the laboratory within 45 minutes after a bowel movement. If this is not possible, then you can store the container with the sample in the refrigerator, but not more than 8 hours.
Histological coprogram
The next method used to diagnose worms in adults is a histological coprogram. This study involves microscopic analysis of the composition of feces based on the study of its section. Such a procedure will reveal the larvae of the worms, fragments of their bodies, as well as the presence of mature mature individuals.
The disadvantage of this technique is the inability to determine the specific type of parasite that develops in the human body.
Blood
The most effective are studies based on the patient's blood. This analysis determines the antibodies and antigens contained in the blood to certain types of parasitic organisms. It also provides information on the type of helminth, its ability to reproduce and quantity.
Due to the fact that helminthic invasion is characterized by the release of toxic waste products of parasites, the composition of the blood changes. This allows doctors to suspect the presence of worms.
A variation of this study is the enzyme immunoassay.
The sensitivity of this method is quite high (reaches 90%). Even if any other studies do not reveal the presence of worms, the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay provides comprehensive data on the type and prevalence of helminths.
Blood sampling for the study is performed on an empty stomach, from a vein.
The blood sample is examined within 2-5 days. The results obtained are deciphered by the attending physician.
The analysis will allow tracking the dynamics of the disease caused by helminthic invasion.
What parasitic diseases are detected by this study? It:
- ascariasis;
- fasciolosis;
- amoebiasis;
- toxoplasmosis;
- giardiasis;
- opisthorchiasis;
- cutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis;
- cysticercosis.
You can take tests for parasites in various private clinics, whose specialists guarantee quick results.
When to take
Sometimes helminthic invasions occur without pronounced symptoms, which greatly complicates both the possibility of diagnosis and timely treatment. However, there are characteristic features, among them:
- persistent headaches;
- frequent colds;
- constipation;
- sleep disturbance;
- fragility of nails;
- the appearance of cracks on the heels;
- bowel disorder;
- itching in the anus.
Parasitic invasions are fraught with serious complications. A large number of worms connected by a ball can cause intestinal blockage. Among other dangerous consequences are hypovitaminosis, beriberi, anemia, jaundice, chronic cell damage that provokes the development of cancer.