Collection/Processing Instructions

Parasite may be submitted in a screw cap sealed container w/o preservative, although not recommended.  

Patients may find organisms suspicious of parasites in their feces, on their body, or from within the house (mainly bedding, furniture, etc). Parasites and arthropods (insects, ticks, mites, lice) of human importance will be fully identified. Clinically unimportant parasites will be identified as fully as possible.   

Consult the Microbiology laboratory (800-222-5835 ext 16141) before submitting arthropods not primarily of medical significance (spiders, beetles, flies).   

Collection Instructions for Skin Scrapings for Scabies mites using Scabies Collection Kit (available from Customer Service or Microbiology Section):

Provider must have: Sterile scalpel, Container of mineral oil, Scotch tape

1. Remove glass slides from the slide transport tube.
2. Label frosted end of specimen slide and slide transport with patient name, medical record number, and date.
3. Place a drop of mineral oil on a sterile scalpel blade.
4. Allow some of the oil to flow onto the skin papule.  Scrape vigorously six or seven times to removed the top of the papule. (Tiny flecks of blood should be seen in the oil.)
5. Transfer the oil and scrapings onto the frosted glass slide.
6.  Add 1-2 extra drops of mineral oil to the slide and mix well.
7. Clumps can be crushed to expose hidden mites.
8. Place the plain glass slide onto the frosted specimen slide.
9. Secure the slides firmly together with tape around both ends.
10. Place the secured slides into the slide transport tube and place in the biohazard bag.
11. Transport to the Microbiology Lab at room temperature as soon as possible. Failure to find mites, eggs, or fecal pellets upon microscopic exam does not rule out scabies.