Stool Specimen Collection
One Vial Stool Transport
Meridian’s Para-Pak® One Vial systems offer convenient, prefilled solutions for stool specimen collection and preservation. With a variety of preservatives tailored for different testing needs, these vials support accurate detection of GI pathogens while maintaining specimen integrity and lab efficiency.
Two Vial Stool Transport
Meridian’s Para-Pak® Two Vial kits combine two preservatives in one convenient solution—such as Formalin with PVA or SAF with Clean—to support multiple diagnostic methods from a single stool specimen. Ideal for parasitology testing, these kits enhance flexibility, streamline workflows, and ensure sample integrity in clinical laboratories.
Three Vial Stool Transport
Meridian’s Para-Pak® Three Vial kits include a combination of Zn-PVA, 10% Formalin, and C&S preservatives, enabling multiple testing methods—O&P exams, cultures, and antigen detection—from one stool sample. Designed for high-throughput labs, these all-in-one kits streamline workflows and support a wide range of gastrointestinal diagnostic protocols.
Stool Concentration System
Meridian’s CON-Trate® system streamlines fecal sample processing for accurate parasite detection. Standardized concentration system for the recovery of helminth eggs, larvae, and protozoan cysts from feces to ensure consistent recovery, minimal handling, and optimized lab efficiency.
Stool Specimens Parasitology Stains
Meridian’s staining solutions—including Mayer’s Albumin, Trichrome Stain, Wheatley’s Trichrome, and Trichrome Blue—support accurate identification of intestinal parasites. These stains enhance contrast and clarity for improved microscopic examination, making them ideal for routine O&P testing and reliable parasite detection in stool specimens.
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Correct transport ensures the viability of pathogens or biomarkers in the sample, allowing accurate diagnosis of gastrointestinal infections and conditions.
A fresh stool sample should be collected using a clean, dry container. Patients should avoid contamination with urine or water. Detailed collection instructions are typically provided by the healthcare provider or lab.
Common preservatives include formalin, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and Cary-Blair medium. Each is selected based on the type of test being performed (e.g., parasitology, bacterial culture, or molecular testing).
Stability depends on the preservative used and storage conditions. Unpreserved samples should be processed within 2 hours, while preserved samples can typically remain stable for several days at room temperature or refrigerated.
Yes, depending on the test. Some samples should be refrigerated immediately, while others, especially for molecular assays, may require freezing. Always follow lab instructions.
Stool samples can help diagnose infections caused by bacteria (like Salmonella), parasites (like Giardia), viruses (like norovirus), and conditions like inflammatory bowel disease or malabsorption.