Common Medical Techniques and Procedures: Fecal Exams

Introduction

This section was designed to provide you with an in-depth look into fecal exams for leopard geckos.

Why are fecal exams necessary? They can help you determine the possible presence of internal parasites. It is always a good idea to have a fecal exam done on any new acquisition, irregardless of the source - just to play it on the safe side. Most internal parasites if caught early enough, are relatively cheap and easy to treat.

It is often recommended by veterinarians, that you have 3 fecal exams performed 5 days apart to take into consideration the periodic shedding of the oocysts of some parasite during their different life stages.

Please read our Disclaimer before reading any further into these common medical techniques and procedures.

Different Types Of Fecal Exams

Fecal Flotation

This is the most common test performed.
Employs the use of a concentrated sugar solution that is mixed with the feces.
This mixture will cause the eggs of nematodes (and some protozoans) to float to the surface where they are collected and then examined under a microscope.
Some clinics will combine the fecal flotation method with centrifugation. The centrifuge will help identify some protozoan cysts if they are present.

Direct Smear

This is used to identify parasites that do not float in the concentrated sugar solution used in fecal flotations.
Involves the application of fecal matter to a slide and then mixed with a solution (either distilled water, physiological saline or even an iodine stain).
This test is most useful for diagnosing protozoan parasites.
May often be done in conjunction with a fecal flotation.

Acid-Fast Test

This test is used to diagnose single-celled parasites such as Cryptosporidium which are not easy to see in basic smears.

Collection/Storing Of Samples

Many of you may be wondering how you properly collect fecal matter so it can be used in a fecal exam by your veterinarian. Here are some general guidelines to keep in mind:

You should try to collect the freshest stool possible - ie while it is still moist. Your vet cannot use any fecal matter that has been dried or soaked in water.
Ideally you should keep your gecko on paper towel or butcher paper until the fecal samples are obtained and you have negative fecal results.
Do not allow the sample to dehydrate or it may become too difficult to identify any parasites and their life cycles that may be present.
Do not touch the stool with your fingers or contaminate it with any other matter. Use a fresh scoop or a piece of wax paper. Be sure to practice proper hygiene.
Some clinics will provide you with a fecal sample jar with preserving fluid and a scoop. Your vet will tell you how to use this and how to store the sample until it can be brought in for analysis.
You can also refrigerate a sample in an airtight plastic bag overnight - ideally for no more than 24 hours. Many vets will advise you to double-bag the sample