Sputum

• Sputum is commonly collected and tested from patients suspected of being infected by which parasite?

  =  Paragonimus westermani
• What can be observed in the sputum of patients with Strongyloides stercoralis hyperinfection?

  = Motile larvae
• Which parasite can be found in sputum samples?

  = Entamoeba histolytica
• What is the recommended time for collecting a sputum specimen for parasitic infection testing?

  = Early morning
• How should a sputum sample be collected?

  = In a wide-mouthed container with a screw cap lid
• Which parasite is NOT typically detected in sputum samples?

  • Entamoeba gingivalis
  • Microsporidia
  • Hookworm
  • Ascaris lumbricoides

  = Hookworm
• What should be avoided when collecting a sputum specimen?

  = Mixing the sample with saliva
• How can sputum samples be concentrated for microscopic examination?

  = Using N-acetylcysteine
• What types of microscopic examinations can be performed on the sediment of a sputum sample?

  = Wet preps and permanent stains