To diagnose crypto, a physician may first observe the initial symptoms after an incubation period of 1 to 12 days.
Next, a stool sample will be tested in a laboratory. The stool culture can reveal the presence of the parasite and it can help to rule out other pathogens.
A pathogen is another name for a bacterium, virus, or microorganism that can cause disease.
Antigen-detection assays can confirm a diagnosis. Antigens are the toxic or foreign substances in the body that trigger an immune response.
Other tests include:
an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay
an immunochromatographic assay
an immunofluorescent assay
A physician may use an ultrasound to check for crypto in the bile system. There may be dilated or irregular bile ducts and a thickened gallbladder.
Finally, an Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) may confirm the diagnosis.
An ERCP involves the insertion of a flexible, lighted tube through the mouth and into the stomach and small intestine.