Ova and Parasite Urine Test

Sample Report Test Code: 008629 Specimen Type: Urine

Description:

Ova and Parasite Urine Test (Labcorp)

This test is used to detect parasitic organisms or their eggs (ova) in a urine sample.  The most common use of the Ova and Parasite urine test is to detect infection with Schistosoma parasites, the most common of which is Schistosoma Haematobium.  Schistosomiasis, also known as Bilharziasis, is one of the most prevalent types of parasitic infections in humans.  It is most common in Africa and the middle east but can be found in other parts of the world as well.  Schistosoma are flukes, or worms, which live in the blood.  They typically are found in the veins near the bladder.  The eggs the parasites lay often travel into the bladder and are expelled from the body in urine.   The most common source of infections is the ingestion of contaminated food or water.  Some schistosomiasis infections will cause no symptoms or will not display any symptoms until weeks after the initial infection.  When symptoms do occur, the most common ones are rash, fever, cough, abdominal pain, blood in the urine, and diarrhea.  If left untreated, infections can cause complications such as inflammation of the liver or spleen, kidney disease, nervous system issues, infertility, and bladder cancer.

The optimal time to collect a sample is typically between noon and 3 pm as this is when egg volume is usually at its highest.  In some cases, multiple tests on different samples may be required to detect the presence of parasites.  A stool ova and parasite test is also available which can aid in identifying parasitic infection in the stomach or GI tract.

Turnaround for this test is typically 4-8 business days.

Where can I find a Ova and Parasite Urine test near me?

Check our lab finder to locate a collection site in your area.