Stool routine and microscopic examination is a lab test assessing gross and microscopic features of feces to detect infections, inflammation, bleeding, and malabsorption. Routine exam notes color, consistency, mucus, blood and odor; microscopic analysis looks for ova, parasites, protozoa, cysts, leukocytes, erythrocytes, fat globules and bacteria. It's ordered for diarrhea, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, or suspected parasitic/inflammatory disease.

Stool microscopy is a laboratory test examining a fresh faecal sample under a microscope to identify parasites (ova, cysts, trophozoites), helminths, indicators of bacterial infection (white blood cells), blood, fat, and abnormal cells. It helps diagnose infections, parasitic infestations, inflammation and malabsorption. Saline and iodine wet mounts or concentration techniques are used; prompt sample collection improves detection.

Stool test costs vary by country and test type. Basic microscopy or fecal occult blood tests are low-cost (about $10–$30 or ₹200–₹500). Culture, PCR, or comprehensive pathogen panels cost more (roughly $50–$300 or ₹500–₹1,500). In public systems like the NHS it's usually free when ordered by a clinician; private lab fees typically range £20–£150. Prices depend on complexity and lab.

A routine stool sample checks for infections (bacteria such as Salmonella, Campylobacter and pathogenic E. coli, C. difficile; parasites like Giardia; viral antigens), hidden blood (FOBT/FIT), and markers of inflammation (calprotectin, lactoferrin). Labs may also test for ova and parasites, fecal fat or reducing substances, leukocytes, mucus, and perform culture with antibiotic sensitivity to diagnose diarrhoea, malabsorption, or GI bleeding.

A normal stool report shows brown color, soft-formed consistency, and no visible blood, mucus, or excess fat. Microscopy finds no pathogenic bacteria, parasites, ova, or white blood cells; cultures are negative. Fecal occult blood is negative and pH is near neutral. Fecal fat and other markers fall within reference ranges, indicating normal digestion without active intestinal infection or inflammation.

Most stool tests don’t need a special diet — eat normally. For faecal occult blood tests, avoid red meat and liver, raw turnips/horseradish, high‑dose vitamin C supplements, and NSAIDs (unless advised otherwise) for 48–72 hours before collection. Also avoid laxatives/enemas prior to sampling. Follow the lab’s instructions and tell your clinician about all medications and supplements.