US · guidance
CMS SOM App. C, Tag D5523
§493.1264 Standard: Parasitology
(a) The laboratory must have available a reference collection of slides or
photographs and, if available, gross specimens for identification of parasites and use
these references in the laboratory for appropriate comparison with diagnostic
specimens.
Interpretive Guidelines §493.1264(a)
When condition-level deficiencies in Parasitology are identified in any or all phases of
testing, use D5008.
The laboratory must have adequate reference material, but does not have to maintain
several different reference systems. Textbooks with photographs, previously stained
slide preparations, preserved specimens, or slides from proficiency testing programs are
some acceptable systems.
If the laboratory uses zinc sulfate for concentration of fecal specimens for ova and
parasite examinations, the acceptable specific gravity of the zinc sulfate solution is 1.18
for fresh fecal samples and 1.20 for formalinized fecal samples. Use D5411 as
applicable.
For non-culture identification systems (e.g., direct antigen) use D5449 and/or D5453 as
appropriate.
History
Rev. 233; Issued: 09-12-25; Effective: 09-12-25; Implementation: 09-12-25
Provenance
- Source
- cms.gov
- Retrieved
- 2026-07-22
- Edition
- som-2026-07-22
- Content hash
c3c6a58afecc2576bead18c1c69df85e2504bdfbfb227e9d07af44f2ff1ac4a1
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