Identification of genus and species is dependent on examination of the entire organism. If the intact organism is not available, useful portions of the specimen can aid in identification, depending on the arthropod in question.
Collection and Submission to the Laboratory
Arthropod specimens should be removed directly from patients. (Note: Relating to human exposure. Otherwise, environmental samples -- infestations or random arthropods -- may be submitted to county or state extension services for identification.)
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend the following:
- Specimens should be submitted to the microbiology or parasitology laboratory.
- Use a clean, dry plastic sterile leak-proof container with a tightly fitting (screw cap) lid.
- Add 70%-90% ethanol to the container. (As an alternative, 10% formalin may be used.) This is required to prevent alteration of the morphologic features, as well as to kill pathogens associated with vectors.
- Add specimen directly to the container. (Only one organism per container.)
- Maintain specimen at room temperature. (Refrigerated is acceptable, frozen is unacceptable.)
- Label properly.
