Diagnosis

As of 09/01/2023, parasitic disease testing provided by CDC has resumed. Please refer to CDC’s Laboratory Test Directory for additional information on available tests, procedures to submit specimens, and required forms.

Please contact parasiteslab@cdc.gov for information on submitting specimens for diagnostic testing.

Healthcare providers needing assistance with diagnosis or management of suspected cases of parasitic diseases may contact CDC’s Parasitic Diseases Hotline at (404) 718-4745, or parasites@cdc.gov. For information on clinical management of malaria cases, please contact malaria@cdc.gov.

The standard method for diagnosing the presence of hookworm is by identifying hookworm eggs in a stool sample using a microscope. Because eggs may be difficult to find in light infections, a concentration procedure is recommended.