Tapeworm Infestation: Identifying the Culprit

Which stool test is performed to identify a tapeworm infestation?

A. Fecal fat

B. Urobilinogen

C. Occult blood stool

D. Ova and parasite stool

Final answer:

Answer:

To identify a tapeworm infestation, option D. Ova and Parasite Stool test is performed. This stool test observes the sample under a microscope to find any parasites or their eggs (ova). Multiple stool samples are examined over a period of days to ensure accuracy.

The stool test that is performed to identify a tapeworm infestation is Ova and Parasite Stool. This test involves the direct examination of a stool sample under a microscope. It's designed to identify the presence of parasites and their eggs (also known as ova) which are signs of parasitic infections, such as tapeworms.

Generally, multiple stool samples collected over various days are examined in an effort to increase diagnostic accuracy. Among other tests, the stool O&P exam can help distinguish common parasitic intestinal infections. If the infection becomes chronic, the parasites may become resistant to medications. Diagnostic tools like the ELISA and other immunoassay tests help with this process.

The morphology of tapeworms is also notable - they are long and flat, so they don’t need a digestive system; instead, they absorb nutrients from the host's food matter in the intestine via diffusion. This peculiarity is very helpful in their identification during such a test.