Comparison of Stool Examination Techniques to Diagnose Parasitic Infection Using Semi-Automate Feces Analysis System and Simple Smear Technique

Abstract

In the hospital microscopic section, a simple smear technique has been routinely utilized to diagnose parasite infection in stool. Low sensitivity, examiner experience, and time consumption have all been mentioned as limitations. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the performance between simple smear technique and Semi-Automate Feces Analysis System for parasitic diagnosis in stool samples. The150 left-over stool samples from routine examination of microscopic section Samutprakarn hospital were recruited in this study to perform both simple smear technique and Semi-Automate Feces Analysis System. The results showed that the simple smear technique revealed 4.67 % (7/150) fecal parasite positives, whereas the Semi-Automate Feces Analysis System revealed 12.00 % (18/150) fecal parasite positives. In conclusion, when compared to a simple smear technique, the Semi-Automate Feces Analysis System showed greater diagnostic efficacy. Furthermore, it can reduce the time needed to prepare a stool sample and is safe for health. This technique may be appropriate and help increase the likelihood of detecting parasite infection during a stool examination.