Stool R/E (Routine Examination)
Also known as: Stool routine examination, Stool for ova and parasites, Stool O&P, stool test, pet ke keeray test, stool R/E
A routine examination of a stool sample: its appearance, and a microscope check for parasite eggs and cysts (such as Giardia, amoeba, roundworm and hookworm), pus cells and red cells.
Why it's ordered
Diarrhoea, especially if long-lasting or bloody, stomach pain, worms seen in stool, unexplained iron deficiency in children, and before some jobs or travel.
Preparation
Collect a fresh sample in a clean, dry container, without urine or water mixed in. Deliver it to the lab within about 1–2 hours; for amoeba, as soon as possible.
Typical adult values
| Normal | No ova (eggs) or cysts seen; no or very few pus cells; no red cells |
|---|
Ranges vary between labs and methods. Always use the range printed on your report.
If it's positive / reactive
Parasite eggs or cysts show a worm or protozoal infection, which is treated with medicine prescribed by your doctor. Many pus cells or red cells suggest inflammation or bacterial infection of the gut.
Good to know
Parasites are not passed in every stool, so one negative result does not rule them out; doctors often ask for up to three samples on different days. Seek urgent care for bloody diarrhoea with fever, signs of dehydration, or diarrhoea in a young child who is drinking poorly. Give ORS for diarrhoea.
Common questions
How should I collect a stool sample?
Collect a fresh sample in a clean, dry container, without urine or water mixed in, and deliver it to the lab within about 1–2 hours.
Can a stool test miss worms?
Yes. Parasites are not passed in every stool, so doctors often ask for up to three samples on different days.
What does a normal stool R/E show?
No ova (eggs) or cysts, no or very few pus cells, and no red cells.
When is diarrhoea an emergency?
Seek urgent care for bloody diarrhoea with fever, signs of dehydration, or diarrhoea in a young child who is drinking poorly.