String test
Duodenal parasites test; Giardia - string test
A string test involves swallowing a string to obtain a sample from the upper part of the small intestine. The sample is then tested to look for intestinal parasites.
A string test is performed to detect the presence of intestinal parasites. A weighted gelatin capsule attached to a string is swallowed and left in place. After about 4 hours, the gelatin capsule is pulled out of the stomach by the string. Any bile, blood, or mucus remaining on the string is examined under the microscope for cell types and segments of parasites or eggs.
Giardiasis is an intestinal infection caused by a protozoan and is spread by contaminated water or contact with an infected person. People who are travelling or hiking should assume water sources are contaminated and either purify drinking water or drink bottled water. Healthcare or daycare workers should practice good hygiene when going from person to person. Unprotected anal sex can also transmit Giardiasis from an infected person to the partner.
How the Test is Performed
To have this test, you swallow a string with a weighted gelatin capsule on the end. The string is pulled out 4 hours later. Any bile, blood, or mucus attached to the string is examined under the microscope. This is done to look for cells and parasites or parasite eggs.
How to Prepare for the Test
You may be asked not to eat or drink anything for 12 hours before the test.
How the Test will Feel
You may find it hard to swallow the string. You may have an urge to vomit when the string is being removed.
Why the Test is Performed
The test is performed when your health care provider suspects that you have a parasite infection. Usually a stool sample is tested first. A string test may be done if the stool sample is negative but a parasite infection is still suspected.
Normal Results
No blood, parasites, fungi, or abnormal cells is normal.
Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your provider about the meaning of your test results.
What Abnormal Results Mean
Abnormal results may be a sign of parasite infection, such as giardia.
Considerations
Treatment with certain medicines can affect the test results.
Other string tests may be used for different conditions.
References
Adam RD. Giardiasis. In: Ryan ET, Hill DR, Solomon T, Aronson NE, Endy TP, eds. Hunter's Tropical Medicine and Emerging Infectious Diseases. 10th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 95.
Melia JMP, Sears CL. Infectious enteritis and proctocolitis. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger and Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 110.
Siddiqi HA, Rabinowitz S, Axiotis CA.. Laboratory diagnosis of gastrointestinal and pancreatic disorders. In: McPherson RA, Pincus MR, eds. Henry's Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods. 24th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:chap 23.
Wojewoda CM. Stempak LM. Medical bacteriology. In: McPherson RA, Pincus MR, eds. Henry's Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods. 24th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:chap 57.
Version Info
Last reviewed on: 6/11/2024
Reviewed by: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Aria - Jefferson Health Torresdale, Jefferson Digestive Diseases Network, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
