Cryptosporidiosis in HIV-infected patients: diagnostic sensitivity of stool examination, based on number of specimens submitted
Blackman, E.; Binder, S.; Gaultier, C.; Benveniste, R.; Cecilio, M.
American Journal of Gastroenterology 92(3): 451-453
1997
ISSN/ISBN: 0002-9270 PMID: 9068467 Document Number: 479705
Objectives: To determine the optimal number of stool specimens needed for the diagnosis of cryptosporidiosis. Methods: Four hundred thirty-five admissions were reviewed (291 patients) in which stool specimens were examined for Cryptosporidium parvum oocysts (mean of 1.47 specimens per admission), using a modified acidfast stain. The diagnostic yield of each specimen was determined. Results: Cryptosporidium parvum oocysts were found in 81 of 435 admissions (18.6%). Ninety-six percent of the positive cases were detected on the first stool specimen analysis, and 100% were detected by the second specimen. Conclusions: Examination of one specimen is generally appropriate for the diagnosis of cryptosporidiosis in a hospitalized patient with AIDS presenting with diarrhea. Examination of a second specimen may be appropriate if the first specimen is negative and there is a high clinical index of suspicion.