Evaluation of the formalin-tween concentration technique for parasitic detection

Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo. 2003 Sep-Oct;45(5):289-91. doi: 10.1590/s0036-46652003000500009. Epub 2003 Nov 12.

Abstract

The formalin-Tween sedimentation method was compared with the formalin-ether sedimentation for parasitic detection. Of a total 297 fecal specimens examined, 72.1% were positive. The formalin-tween technique was effective for ascertaining helminths, particularly Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura and hookworm eggs; however it has less capability for protozoa detection. This method is simple, inexpensive, less time consuming and highly sensitive when detecting the parasitic infection, particularly when focusing on helminth eggs.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Evaluation Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Ether
  • Feces / parasitology
  • Fixatives*
  • Formaldehyde*
  • Helminthiasis / diagnosis*
  • Humans
  • Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic / diagnosis*
  • Parasite Egg Count / methods
  • Protozoan Infections / diagnosis*
  • Sensitivity and Specificity

Substances

  • Fixatives
  • Ether
  • Formaldehyde