infections
Fluke Infections of the Lungs
Diagnosis of Fluke Lung Infections
Examination of a sputum or stool sample Sometimes blood tests to detect antibodies to the parasite Imaging tests of the lungs Doctors diagnose lung fluke infections when they see eggs in a person's sputum or stool. Sometimes a sample of fluid is removed from the lungs and checked for eggs. Eggs may be difficult to find because only a few are released at time and they are not released regularly. Laboratories may use special concentration techniques to help them identify the eggs. Blood tests to detect antibodies to the parasite may be useful. ( Antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system to help defend the body against attack, including that by parasites.) Other tests, such as an X-Rays or 