What is the purpose of this test?
The Gut Pathogen Profile is a comprehensive test designed to identify harmful or potentially harmful organisms in the gut, such as parasites, bacteria, and yeast, by analyzing a stool sample. If you're experiencing gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, this test can help determine if the cause is an infection from a pathogenic organism. Knowing which pathogen is causing the symptoms helps doctors recommend the most effective treatment options, which could include antimicrobial medications, dietary changes, supplements, and lifestyle adjustments to resolve the infection and prevent further complications.
Genova Diagnostics uses advanced methods to ensure accurate detection of these pathogens. These methods include PCR technology for detecting certain bacteria, culture methods for identifying bacterial and fungal species, and microscopy for parasite detection. By combining these techniques, the test can identify a wide range of potential pathogens, offering a clear picture of what might be affecting the gut. This comprehensive approach ensures that all possible organisms are evaluated, helping to provide the most accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
The Gut Pathogen Profile - Genova Test Kit includes:
- Gastrointestinal Microbiome (Culture): Identifies various bacteria, fungi, and yeast that may be disrupting the gut microbiome.
- Bacteriology (Culture): Cultures bacterial samples to identify specific bacteria that could be causing infections in the gut.
- Mycology (Yeast/Fungi): Detects fungal infections that may contribute to symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
- Bacterial Sensitivities (Pharmaceutical & Botanical): Tests how bacteria respond to different pharmaceutical and natural treatments.
- Mycology Sensitivities (Pharmaceutical & Botanical): Identifies how fungal infections react to treatments, including both pharmaceuticals and botanical therapies.
- Parasitology: Detects microscopic parasites and protozoa using both standard and advanced PCR methods.
- Microscopic Exam Results: Examines stool samples under a microscope to identify parasites, an essential part of diagnosing infections.
- qPCR Parasitology - Protozoa: Identifies protozoan parasites using real-time PCR, which is a highly accurate and sensitive method.
Who should get this test?
- Individuals experiencing sudden changes in bowel habits
- Those who have recently traveled abroad or to areas with poor sanitation
- People who have been camping or exposed to untreated water
- Individuals in close contact with animals
- Those who have consumed undercooked meat or seafood
- Anyone with symptoms such as gas, bloating, nausea, abdominal pain, anal itching, or diarrhea
Benefits of the Gut Pathogen Profile - Genova Test Kit:
- Accurate Detection: Combines multiple diagnostic techniques for the most accurate identification of pathogens, including parasites, bacteria, and fungi.
- Tailored Treatment Plans: Helps doctors choose the most appropriate treatments by identifying the exact pathogen causing the symptoms.
- Comprehensive Assessment: Uses advanced technology like PCR, DNA sequencing, and culture methods to ensure all possible pathogens are evaluated.
- Improved Symptom Management: Identifies the root cause of gut symptoms, enabling targeted treatments that can reduce discomfort and prevent the spread of infection.
- Flexible Testing Options: Choose between one-day or three-day stool sample collections based on the suspected infection, offering more flexibility and accuracy.
- Prevention of Recurrence: Helps control infections and reduces the likelihood of future flare-ups by identifying the right treatments.
Choosing Between 1-Day or 3-Day Sample Collection
Before ordering the Gut Pathogen Profile - Genova Test Kit, you'll need to choose between a one-day or three-day stool sample collection. The one-day sample is typically sufficient unless you suspect a parasitic infection. A three-day collection is optimal if a parasitic infection is suspected. For further assistance, please contact Walk-In Lab Customer Service at 1-800-539-6119.
You will receive an activation card with the test kit. To activate your test kit, scan the barcode or go to gdx.net and follow the prompts.
Preparation:Ship test kits to the lab Monday-Thursday only. No fasting is required for collection; however, patients should consume normal amounts of dietary fat to assess fat absorption properly. Before starting this collection, patients should wait two weeks after completing PPIs, bismuth, antifungal, antibiotic, probiotic, and anti-parasitic medications. Patients should also refrain from taking digestive enzymes, laxatives (particularly mineral or castor oil), antacids, aspirin, and substances containing barium or bismuth for at least 48 hours prior to and during the specimen collection. If possible, take medications or supplements after collection. Check with physician before stopping medications.
Test Results:
14 business days once the lab receives the specimen. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
