Other Specimens – Urine Specimens

The definitive diagnosis of urinary schistosomiasis (Schistosoma haematobium) is established by demonstration of S. haematobium eggs in urine. An increased number of eggs is shed in the urine around midday, so an optimum urine specimen for diagnosis should be collected at noon. The specimen should be immediately centrifuged at 400 × g and the sediment examined by wet mount.

Trichomonas vaginalis motile trophozoites may also be found in the urine, especially in infected male patients. To look for the presence of trophozoites, the urine specimen should be centrifuged at 400 × g, the sediment mixed with a drop or two of saline, and examined by wet mount. Temporary stains, such as methylene blue or malachite green, are also helpful.

For additional information about microscopic examination of urine specimens, call the Division of Parasitic Diseases, at (404) 718-4110.