Definition of Smear of duodenal fluid aspirate:

Smear of duodenal fluid aspirate is an examination of fluid taken from the duodenum, for a possible infection. Usually the health care practitioner is looking for either giardia or strongyloides, which are parasites.

How the test is performed:

The specimen is obtained by esophagogastroduodenoscopy ( EGD). The doctor passes a flexible scope through the mouth and stomach to the duodenum in order to view the organs and obtain specimens. If the tube is passed without EGD, its position in the body can be confirmed by the pH (acid-base balance) of the fluid obtained, or by an x-ray.

Fluid is suctioned up from the duodenum when the tube or the scope is in proper position. The fluid is placed on a microscope slide and stained for examination.

How to prepare for the test:

Do not eat or drink anything, even water, for 12 hours before the test.

How the test will feel:

You may have a gagging sensation as the tube is passed, but the procedure is usually not painful.

Why the test is performed:

The test is done to diagnose infection of the small bowel, but it is only rarely necessary. In most cases, this test is only done when a diagnosis could not be made with a stool examination and a duodenal string test.