Stool testing can provide valuable insight and information by way of analysing an individual’s gastrointestinal health. Testing stool samples can reveal pathogenic bacteria such as salmonella, detect viral pathogens such as norovirus and reveal parasitic infections such as cryptosporidium. Stool testing is also crucial for detecting high levels of calprotectin and lactoferrin, which indicate inflammation often associated with Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis and various other conditions.
Here at Salient, we provide a number of pathology services, microbiome analysis services and stool sample tests. Our London stool testing lab offers rapid testing services within a range of packages to suit all clients.
Today, we're going to be looking at the work we do with stool testing at our London-based diagnostic lab, what stool testing might test for and what the results can tell us.
FIT is a method of stool testing that uses antibodies to detect and identify traces of blood in the stool. This particular test is viral in the early detection of lower gastrointestinal bleeding and colon cancer. An individual needs only to provide a stool sample which will then be sent for analysis at a diagnostic lab.
A FIT test is non invasive, meaning it requires no instruments to be inserted into the body. The rest can be carried out in the comfort of your own home and is instrumental in the early detection of a number of serious conditions. Typically, a positive test showing present haemoglobin in a stool sample would require follow-up investigations to ascertain the cause of the bleeding.
Calprotectin is the name of a protein that is released into the stool by white blood cells during inflammation. Testing for calprotectin in the stool can help monitor and diagnose various Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBDs) by detecting bleeding and inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.
As with the FIT, this test is also non-invasive, only requiring a stool sample for analysis. It is also a vital tool in the early detection of inflammation, which in turn can lead to early detection of underlying gastrointestinal conditions and diseases. One specific advantage this test has, is it can help distinguish inflammatory bowel diseases from irritable bowel syndrome, as IBS is non-inflammatory.
Helicobacter pylori (H.pylori) is a type of common bacteria that can affect the stomach lining. It is a gram-negative bacterium that can burrow into the mucus lining of the stomach. Persistent infection with the bacteria can become a significant risk factor for certain kinds of stomach cancer. Long term H.Pylori infection can also lead to chronic gastritis and is a major cause of ulcers.
Testing for a specific bacteria such as h.pylori is essential in accurate diagnosis and the formulation of treatment, as the presence of the bacteria effectively narrows down the possible diagnoses. Various post-treatment options are available, such as a relatively simple stool antigen test or breath test to categorically confirm the eradication of the bacteria. Detecting and managing the presence of the bacteria can also act as a preventative measure, reducing the risk of developing certain conditions, diseases and cancers in the future.
Pancreatic Elastase (PE1) is a proteolytic enzyme produced by the pancreas and is used to break down and digest proteins. Testing stool samples for this enzyme can produce important information regarding pancreatic function. A stool sample is obtained and analysed using immunoassay techniques to ascertain the concentration of PE1. Low levels of the enzyme show pancreatic insufficiency and can often be an indicator of conditions such as cystic fibrosis or chronic pancreatitis. The test can also help indicate whether any malabsorption issues are present.
These are just a few examples of how pathology is at the forefront of public health concerns and policy. Pathologists continue to develop ever-more advanced and accurate methods, techniques and insights to benefit public health, from the policy that governs nationwide procedure when dealing with an infectious disease, to learning how your genetics can play a role in diagnosing and deciding on accurate treatment.
Our full address is: Salient Bio The Biscuit Factory 100 Drummond Rd London SE16 4DG
If you would like to know more about the services we offer regarding stool testing, please reach out to us and one of our expert clinicians will aim to be in touch within 24 hours.
Clinical Review: The information on this page has been reviewed for clinical accuracy by Dr. Marta Ciechonska Ph.D, microbiologist.
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