Case #433 – December, 2016

A 34-year-old male from Louisiana presented with abdominal discomfort. A stool specimen was collected in 10% formalin and a formalin-ethyl acetate (FEA) concentration was performed. A wet mount smear was prepared from the sediment and examined for ova and parasites (O & P). Figure A was captured at 100x magnification; Figures B–D were captured at 400x magnification. The objects of interest measured 155-165μm by 48-55μm. What is your diagnosis? Based on what criteria?

Figure A

Figure B

Figure C

Figure D

The objects shown are artifacts commonly known as “Beaver bodies.” They are algae (Psorospermium haeckelli) that can be present in the tissues of crayfish and can be found on O & P examinations of individuals that recently consumed crayfish.