poop doctor MD!

we need a clean-up in the ER!
these wonderful pictures were submitted by lynda-bean of seattle WA. she is a microbiologist, and sometimes gets to examine poo samples, among other things. she has titled these as 'Poopie Family Portrait' this is what she writes:
In my lab (microbiology), we examine stool for stool pathogens like Salmonella, Shigella, and E.coli O157:H7. We also look for stool parasites like Giardia and tapeworms. We do look microscopically for white blood cells. The field has gotten very sophisticated and we're utilizing molecular diagnostics to search for bacteria, too. Of course, we have to spoon out samples for testing. That's always a pleasure and stinky. I hate the exploding containers. Well, they don't explode but those watery stools can build up gas in the containers and when you open them they kind of spew out juices. Good thing we protect ourselves.
and I would also like to make note, lynda says there is a shortage of people in her field, so to all you people looking for a nice stable career... here you go!

thank you very much lynda-bean for all your knowledge, and pictures!