Comprehensive Stool Parasite Test - UK
Back from travelling with gut symptoms that won't settle? Persistent diarrhoea, cramps, or bloating that started abroad could be a parasitic or enteric infection. This combined panel uses microscopy and PCR so fewer infections are missed.
This comprehensive stool panel combines traditional microscopy for ova, cysts and parasites with PCR-based stool culture. Together they detect protozoa (such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium), helminth eggs, and a wider range of enteric pathogens than either method alone.
Parasitic and infective gut illness is more common than many people realise, particularly after travel to regions with different water and food hygiene standards. Symptoms often persist for weeks or months without treatment.
Symptoms that may indicate a parasitic infection:
- • Prolonged diarrhoea or loose stools
- • Abdominal cramps and bloating
- • Unexplained weight loss
- • Fatigue
- • Symptoms that started during or after travel abroad
What this combined panel covers:
- • Microscopy for ova, cysts and parasites
- • PCR stool culture for enteric pathogens
- • Giardia lamblia
- • Cryptosporidium
- • Entamoeba histolytica
- • Helminth (worm) eggs and related parasites
Microscopy remains the classic method for ova and cysts. PCR detects pathogen DNA directly, which helps when organism numbers are low or shedding is intermittent. Booking this combined catalogue item means both components are ordered together.
Book your comprehensive stool parasite test - £159.38
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Dr Penelope Sheehan
Health Screening, Paediatrics and Menopause • GMC 6056535
This page was medically reviewed on 21 July 2026.
"Specialising in women's health, hormonal balance, and menopause management within screening contexts. Dr Sheehan also has dedicated weight-loss management training and experience in safe GLP1 agonist prescribing alongside a special interest in paediatric assessments and consultations. Her compassionate and understanding approach is particularly valued by our patients."
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Common questions
Q.How do I collect the sample?
We provide a collection kit. You collect a small stool sample at home and return it to the clinic. Full instructions included.
Q.Why microscopy and PCR together?
Microscopy is best for ova, cysts and parasites seen under the microscope. PCR adds sensitive DNA detection and stool culture targets. Offering both as one panel reduces the chance of a missed infection.
Q.Can I test without travel history?
Yes. While travel is the most common cause, parasitic infections can be acquired locally or through contaminated food and water anywhere.
Q.What treatment is available?
Most parasitic infections respond well to specific antiparasitic medications. Our GP can prescribe treatment based on your results.
