| Indications for performing this test: Fecal flotation using zinc sulfate as a flotation media is indicated when Giardia is suspected as the infectious agent in an animal with diarrhea. Zinc sulfate preparations have a lower specific gravity than sugar preparations. The hypertonicity of sugar preparations tends to distort Giardia cysts, where zinc sulfate preparations cause less distortion. Multiple samples may be required to diagnose Giardia, as cysts can be shed intermittently. At least three fresh fecal samples should be examined over a period of three to five days to maximize the chance of ruling out an infection. Approximately 70% to 93% of Giardia-positive dogs can be identified with one and two ZSCT, respectively. |
Giardia on a wet mount slide |
