SaturatedSodiumChloride.PDF

Ray M. Kaplan, DVM, PhD James E. Miller DVM PhD College of Veterinary Medicine School of Veterinary Medicine University of Georgia Louisiana State University Modified McMaster Egg Counting For Quantitation of Nematode Eggs. Fecal worm egg examination methods are based on the principle of differential density. In other words, parasite eggs sink in water, but they will float in various chemical solutions that are more dense than water (technically, they have a higher specific gravity) because the eggs are lighter than the fluid used as a floatation solution. The most inexpensive and easiest floatation solution to make is using table salt. One quart of flotation solution is sufficient for about 30 McMaster examinations. The first step is to collect freshly passed feces that are uncontaminated by soil or bedding. The best way is to use a rubber glove and extract feces directly from the rectum. Alternatively, a feces can be picked up off the ground if done soon after deposited. The collection container should be labeled with the name (number) of the animal and the date of collection. Fresh samples work best, but accurate results can be obtained if the sample is kept refrigerated during the interim. If samples are not refrigerated the eggs will hatch within 12 to 24 hrs. Once hatched, they cannot be counted. Materials: Compound microscope Scale Saturated sodium chloride (table salt)* 50 ml centrifuge tube with screw cap. Note: tube should be marked with ml increments. Tongue depressor Pipet (1 ml syringe or eye dropper works well) McMasters egg counting slide** Paper towels A fresh fecal sample should be collected and kept refrigerated until tested *Saturated Sodium Chloride: Table salt 1 pound box Tap water 3 quarts Heat in pan with stirring until boiling, then let cool at room temp. The solution will look cloudy and some material will precipitate - this is OK. Pour clear part of solution into a dispensing container of some