Which of the following methods is commonly used in the identification of parasitic eggs in fecal samples?

Prepare for the ASCP Parasitology Exam. Utilize multiple choice questions with hints and explanations to boost your readiness. Start your journey to certification today!

The centrifugation-flotation technique is commonly used in the identification of parasitic eggs in fecal samples because it effectively separates the eggs from other debris and enhances the likelihood of detecting them. This method involves spinning a fecal sample in a centrifuge, causing the denser materials to settle at the bottom, while the lighter eggs float in a flotation solution. This separation allows for a concentrated examination of the sample, increasing the detection rate of parasitic eggs that may be present in small quantities.

Other methods, such as direct smear and wet mount microscopy, do not offer the same level of concentration and may miss eggs if they are present in low numbers or are heavily mixed with fecal matter. The culture method is not typically used for identifying parasitic eggs since it is more suited for growing organisms like bacteria and does not apply to assessing the presence of eggs or cysts in fecal samples. Thus, the centrifugation-flotation technique stands out as a reliable approach specifically tailored for this purpose in parasitology.

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