This study focuses on recovery efficiencies of whole Cryptosporidium parvum oocysts using "off-the-slide"
extraction techniques. The extraction approach was evaluated in two phases: removal
of the coverslip and mounting media; and, transfer of the oocysts from the slide to the
genotyping tube. C. parvum oocysts were counted by flow cytometry to contain 200, 20 or 0
oocysts per well. The coverslip was then removed and retained, and the well was washed. The
coverslip and washed well were recounted. Results show that the number of oocysts remaining
on the well was variable after removal of the coverslip and mounting media, ranging from nearly
50% to 95%. Less than 2% of the oocysts on average were attached to the coverslip, with the
remaining oocysts removed with the mounting media. These results suggest that removal of the
coverslip accounts for little oocyst loss; however, the mounting media retained on the slide must
be transferred to the genotyping tube to accurately reflect the oocysts on the slide. Includes 8 references, abstract only.