The distribution of chymotrypsin within the feces and description of a new device for the preparation of stool samples.

We measured the distribution of chymotrypsin within feces by comparing duplicate 100-mg stool aliquots from 48 stool specimens. For practical purposes, the distribution of the enzyme in stool appears sufficiently homogeneous to assure representative results even from 100-mg stool aliquots. Given this likelihood, we have developed a new disposable device that measures 100-mg stool aliquots hygienically, prepares this material for shipping by mail, homogenizes and suspends the stool sample, and facilitates centrifugation of the fecal suspension, all within the same instrument. Performance studies with this new device revealed that stools of different consistency can be measured out precisely and conveniently by volume. The difference in the specific weight of different stools appears to be so low that for practical purposes a 100-mg mass of stool can be weighed out by volume.