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:

The Microbiology with Sensitivities test includes an assessment of intestinal ecology through stool culture analysis, including comprehensive bacteriology and yeast cultures to identify the presence of beneficial, imbalanced, and pathogenic flora. Such an analysis is an important method of identifying imbalances in intestinal microflora. Sensitivities to a variety of prescriptive and natural agents are provided when pathogenic bacteria and yeast are cultured. This provides the clinician with important and specific clinical information to help plan an appropriate treatment protocol.

In a healthy balanced state of intestinal flora, the beneficial bacteria make up a significant proportion of the total microflora. However, in many individuals we see an imbalance of beneficial bacteria and an overgrowth of non-beneficial or even pathogenic microorganisms (dysbiosis). This can be due to a variety of factors including: daily exposure to chemicals in our drinking water that are toxic to friendly bacteria, the use of antibiotics, chronic consumption of highly processed foods (low in fiber, high in sugar) and high stress levels.

The test is typically performed as a follow up after treatments initiated as a results of the Comprehensive Stool Analysis with Parasitology (CSAP).

Tests for:

Intestinal ecology: beneficial, imbalance, and pathogenic flora

Symptoms and conditions:

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

Test type:

Gastrointestinal function: bacteriology, parasitology, yeast cultures, intestinal microflora, microbial parasites and pathogens, intestinal health

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)

No Call / Inhibited
In certain circumstances, stool samples may not yield results for a limited section of viruses, pathogenic bacteria and parasites [known as : No Call / Inhibited]. Statistically this can affect approximately 6% of tests.
Many factors contribute to this issue including diet, medication, supplements, and competing DNA. Excessive calcium, tannic acid, bile salts, haemoglobin, melanin, collagen, urea, degradation products, complex polysaccharides and polyphenolic substances have also been found to cause inhibition.Test reports affected are not considered to be defective and thus are not eligible for cancellation or refunds.
Resubmission of the a supplementary sample to attempt analysis can be accommodated with billable costs limited to supply and return shipping.
By ordering this test, you accept the conditions and risks explained here.

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