NOTE: Please ensure that a correct amount of stool sample is provided in EACH vial. If this cannot be the case, please click on the <Practical> tab for further information.

Description:

This test helps detect abnormal levels of specific yeast species in the stool to tailor treatment for patients with chronic gastrointestinal and extra-gastrointestinal symptoms. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing to prescriptive and natural agents is also performed for appropriate fungal species at no additional charge. This provides useful clinical information to help plan an appropriate treatment protocol.
 

Yeast infections can cause many symptoms inside and outside of the gastrointestinal region. In many cases, a yeast infection may escape suspicion as a pathogen. There is controversy around the relationship between Candida infection and episodes of recurrent diarrhea. However, episodes of yeast infection after short-term and long-term antibiotic use have been identified in patients with both gastrointestinal and vaginal symptoms.
 

There is some evidence relating yeast infections with more chronic extra-gastrointestinal conditions. Studies suggest that the production of antibodies against Candida albicans may contribute to atopic dermatitis in young adults. Other studies have identified the potential role of candidiasis in chronic fatigue syndrome. Identification of abnormal levels of specific yeast species in a patient's stool is an important diagnostic step toward therapeutic planning for a patient with chronic gastrointestinal and extra-gastrointestinal symptoms. 

Overview

Tests for:

Intestinal ecology: yeast

Symptoms and conditions:

• Imbalanced intestinal ecology
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Autoimmune diseases (e.g. rheumatoid arthritis)
• Fatigue
• Chronic headaches
• Food allergies
   

Analytes measured:

• Yeast culture

Practical

Test type:

Gastrointestinal function: yeast

Specimen requirements: STOOL

QUANTITY: Each vial must be filled until the indicated fill line, and must not be filled to the top.

STORAGE: 

Yellow/Orange capped vials: REFRIGERATE (DO NOT freeze)

Age requirements:

Applicable to all ages. For infants and new-borns, collect from the middle of the stool, not touching the diaper as this will contaminate the sample. The stool needs to be free of urine.

Average processing time:

14 days