DETECTION FOR SCOLECES IN HYDATID CYST FLUID
(Flat ₹181 OFF - Sanovra Lab)
Report Time: Next Day Evening (Cutoff 4:30 PM) | Sample: Aspirated Cyst Fluid | Test Code: HM020
Cystic Echinococcosis (Hydatid Disease) is a serious parasitic infection caused by the tapeworm Echinococcus granulosus. When a human accidentally ingests the eggs of this tapeworm, the larvae hatch and travel to organs most commonly the Liver or Lungs where they form large, fluid-filled sacs called Hydatid Cysts.
To confirm that a cyst found on an ultrasound or MRI is actually a parasitic infection (and not just a harmless fluid bubble or tumor), doctors extract fluid from the cyst and send it to the lab. This microscopic test looks for Scoleces (the heads of the tapeworms) to definitively diagnose the infection.
What Are Scoleces and Hydatid Sand?
Inside the protective wall of a hydatid cyst, thousands of tiny parasite heads are being formed. These heads are called Scoleces (singular: Scolex). Each scolex is armed with microscopic hooklets that it uses to attach to tissue.
Over time, these scoleces detach from the inner wall of the cyst and float freely in the cyst fluid. When this fluid is extracted, the microscopic debris settles at the bottom, creating a sediment known medically as Hydatid Sand. Detecting this sand under a microscope is the ultimate proof of a live, active tapeworm infection.
Why is this Test Performed?
When an imaging scan (Ultrasound/CT) reveals a cystic mass in the liver or lung, doctors must determine its origin.
-
➤Definitive Diagnosis: Blood tests (serology) for Hydatid disease can sometimes be falsely negative or positive. Finding the actual parasite in the fluid is 100% conclusive.
-
➤Monitoring PAIR Procedure: The fluid is often sent to the lab during or immediately after a procedure called PAIR (Puncture, Aspiration, Injection, Re-aspiration) to confirm the cyst was indeed parasitic and that the sterilizing agent injected worked.
How is the Sample Collected?
Therefore, sample collection is strictly performed by a radiologist or surgeon under ultrasound guidance in a hospital setting. The extracted fluid is then securely sent to Sanovra Lab for microscopic analysis.
Interpreting Your Results
| Microscopy Result | Clinical Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Positive (Scoleces or Hooklets seen) | Confirmed Active Hydatid Cyst. The parasite is present. Anti-parasitic medication (like Albendazole) and surgical management are usually required. |
| Negative (No Scoleces seen) | Could indicate a sterile/inactive cyst, a non-parasitic simple liver cyst, or that the sample did not contain the sediment (sand). Clinical correlation is required. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The tapeworm lives in the intestines of dogs. Dogs shed the eggs in their feces. Humans get infected by accidentally swallowing the eggs, usually through contaminated food, water, or by petting infected dogs and not washing hands before eating. It cannot be spread from human to human.
Rarely. Hydatid cysts usually grow slowly over years (sometimes decades) until they become large enough to press on organs and cause pain, nausea, or breathing issues. Medical intervention is almost always necessary.
If the fluid sample is received at Sanovra Lab before 4:30 PM, the concentrated microscopy and staining are performed, and the report is delivered by the Next Day Evening.
Definitive Parasitic Diagnosis
For hospitals and clinics requiring precise microscopic confirmation of Hydatid Disease, trust the experts at Sanovra Lab.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Sample collection must be performed by a qualified medical professional. Results should be interpreted by a Surgeon or Infectious Disease Specialist.