INTRODUCTION FPC is a simple, clean, efficient device used to concentrate helminth eggs & larvae and protozoan cysts, and to recover coccidian oocysts such as Cryptosporidium parvum and Isospora belli. An independent study comparing four fecal concentrators found that Evergreen Scientific's patented FPCwas "easiest to use," produced slides rated "easiest to examine," and had the shortest processing time (14). Moreover, of all the devices in the study, FPCoffered by far the lowest cost.

When used in conjuction with the 15 ml sizes of Evergreen's FTK, Fecal Transport Kits, FPCprovides an integrated system to collect, preserve, transport, and process fecal specimens for ova and parasite procedures.

METHODOLOGY

The methodology is a modification of the commonly accepted Ritchie formalin-ether (F-E) method. However the FPCmethod uses a closed system. The brochure illustrates the recommended procedure in 16 easy-to-follow steps.

SPECIFICATIONS

FPCreplaces funnel-gauze filtration with two 15 ml polyporpylene tubes interconnected with a precision molded plastic strainer device. Ova and parasites pass through the 0.6 x 0.6 mm holes while excess fecal debris is retained.

FPCconcentrates aliquots of fresh stool or specimens preserved in 5% or 10% formalin, merthiolate iodine formalin (MIF), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) or sodium acetate formalin (SAF). The FPC strainer also attaches directly to the 15 ml sample vials included with FTK kits to eliminate intermediate preparation prior to concetration and to minimize handling and chance for contamination. By keeping the sample completely contained, FPC minimizes lab personnel's exposure and virtually eliminates the odor associated with fecal specimens.

One case provides materials for 100 tests. Included are preassembled centrifuge tube-strainer units, centrifuge tube capse, dispensing spoons, 20% Triton X-100, trays, applicator sticks, biohazard bags, and instructions.