Two common concentration techniques used in the laboratory to increase the yield of parasite eggs, cysts, and larvae from stool samples are:
* **Formalin-Ethyl Acetate Sedimentation:** This is the most widely used sedimentation method. It uses centrifugation to separate parasites (which settle at the bottom) from fecal debris (which floats in the ethyl acetate layer). It is excellent for recovering a wide range of protozoa, eggs, and larvae.
* **Zinc Sulfate Flotation:** This method relies on a high-density solution (zinc sulfate) that causes parasitic elements to float to the surface while heavier fecal matter sinks. It is particularly effective for detecting protozoan cysts and many common helminth eggs.
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### Comparison at a Glance
| Feature | Sedimentation (Formalin-Ethyl Acetate) | Flotation (Zinc Sulfate) |
| :— | :— | :— |
| **Mechanism** | Parasites settle due to gravity/centrifugation. | Parasites float due to high-density liquid. |
| **Recovery** | Recovers almost all types of parasites. | Better for cysts; may miss heavy eggs. |
| **Morphology** | Preserves morphology well. | High density can cause fragile cysts to shrivel. |
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