What are pathogens?
Pathogens are tiny organisms, such as a virus, bacteria, fungi, yeast, or parasites, that cause infections or diseases. Usually, the body combats pathogens by using the immune system and some beneficial bacteria in the body's normal human flora. However, if the immune system or beneficial bacteria is compromised or weakened, pathogenic bacteria being combatted can re-emerge and spread, causing harm to the host.
What is the purpose of this test?
Order the Bacteriology Culture profile to help identify the presence of beneficial flora and imbalanced flora, including Clostridium species and dysbiotic flora, and detect infectious pathogens.
A good balance of beneficial microflora is essential for good overall health. For example, the Nobel Prize-winning zoologist-immunologist and researcher Élie Metchnikoff drew attention to the adverse effects of dysbiotic gut microflora on the host. He suggested that ingestion of fermented milk better explained what he called "autointoxication," which is a theory that intestinal waste products can poison the body and are a significant contributor to many diseases. In addition, he proposed that consuming large quantities of Lactobacillus species would reduce the number of toxin-producing bacteria and lead to better health and increased lifespan.
Accurately identifying pathogens allows the individual to seek properly targeted treatment to resolve the infection. Targeted therapies such as antimicrobial, dietary, lifestyle, and supplementation interventions help to improve symptoms by controlling the infection and preventing it from spreading. Therefore, Doctor's Data developed the Bacteriology Culture Profile to ensure the identification of all potential pathogens.
When should I order a Bacteriology Culture Profile?
Individuals may order this Bacteriology Culture Profile if they have a clinical history representative of a gastrointestinal issue or if they have experienced symptoms related to dysbiosis. Additionally, individuals may use this profile to assess the effectiveness of treatment.
Pathogenic testing is ideal for individuals with the following:
- Gastrointestinal symptoms (gas, bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea)
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Autoimmune diseases (rheumatoid arthritis)
- Fatigue
- Chronic headaches
- Allergies to various foods
- Exposure to chemicals in drinking water that is toxic to friendly bacteria
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Inflammation
- Regular consumption of highly processed foods (low in fiber, high in sugar)
- High-stress levels
