Modified Acid-Fast staining of a stool sample is specifically used to identify which group of pathogens?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: Coccidian parasites
Oocysts of Cryptosporidium, Cyclospora, and Cystoisospora are acid-fast and appear bright red against a blue/green background when stained with modified Kinyoun or Ziehl-Neelsen stains. Standard O&P wet mounts often miss these tiny oocysts.
Keep practicing
More Stool Examination questions
- What is the clinical significance of a positive 'Fecal Elastase' test?
- Which of the following describes the 'Hanging Drop' preparation used for stool samples?
- Which finding in a stool sample is most characteristic of 'Pseudomembranous Colitis'?
- Which of the following conditions is most likely associated with 'steatorrhea' (excess fat in the stool)?
- What is the clinical significance of finding 'rice-water' stools in a patient?
- The presence of 'Charcot-Leyden crystals' in stool microscopic examination is most suggestive of: