Enterohemorrhagic E. coli Shiga-like Toxin Stool Test Add-On - Genova Test Kit

What is the purpose of this test?

Order this The Enterohemorrhagic E. coli Shiga-like Toxin Stool Test Add-On - Genova Test Kit, which detects Shiga-like toxins in a stool sample to screen for an enterohemorrhagic E. coli (EHEC)-associated disease.

E. coli bacteria are naturally present and play an essential role in digestion. While most strains of E. coli are benign, some can cause gastroenteritis, leading to inflammation in the stomach and intestines. Laboratory tests can identify pathogenic E. coli strains that produce Shiga toxins. Different types of E. coli can cause diarrhea through invasion of the intestinal lining or toxin production. 

Medical tests look for strains that produce Shiga toxins, known as STEC or VTEC/EHEC. A type of STEC known as O157:H7 causes most GI illness outbreaks in the US, but non-O157 strains are detected more often. In 2011, a non-O157 strain caused an outbreak in Germany that led to 32 deaths. STEC O157 causes about 36% of US infections, with non-O157 strains causing the rest.

Consuming contaminated food, particularly ground beef that is not properly cooked, unpasteurized milk and juice, and raw vegetables like lettuce and alfalfa sprouts can lead to severe illnesses. Additionally, STEC can spread through polluted water, contact with farm animals or their surroundings, and from person to person. It is crucial to note that even a small amount of E. coli can result in an infection. Therefore, it is imperative to exercise caution and take necessary measures to avoid consuming contaminated food and water.

When should I order an Enterohemorrhagic E. coli Shiga-like Toxin Stool Add-On - Genova Test Kit?

Individuals may order this add-on if they have experienced gastrointestinal symptoms related to an E. coli infection. Common signs or symptoms of an E. coli infection include:

• Nausea
• Severe abdominal cramps
• Watery diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Potential vomiting and low-grade fever
• STEC infections are often associated with bloody stools

Individuals should note that this test is only offered as an add-on for the following Genova Diagnostics test kits:

• Gastrointestinal (GI) Effects Comprehensive Stool Profile 1-Day Test Kit (GD2200)
• Gastrointestinal (GI) Effects Comprehensive Stool Profile 3-Day Test Kit (GD2201)
• Gastrointestinal (GI) Effects Microbial Ecology Stool Profile (GD2205)
• Gastrointestinal (GI) Effects Fundamentals Stool Profile (GD2209)

Don't hesitate to contact Walk-In Lab's Customer Service at 1-800-539-6119 if you are interested in this add-on test, as additional charges will be applied.