An evaluation of a coprological technique for assessing drug efficacy in schistosomiasis japonica

ABSTRACT

A study was carried out to evaluate the reliability of the MIFC technique as a quantitative method of stool examination for S. japonicum ova. The data presented show that valid questions may be raised regarding the use of the MIFC technique for egg counting from the point of view of number and consistency of egg recovery. The results of this study further show that the MIFC method for quantitative stool examination could be improved. Thorough stirring of the whole specimen and the examination of 3 sediments per gram of stool sample instead of just one in the MIFC technique will lead to more reliable results. (Author)