Clearing Up Some Stool Testing Myths
Myth #1
“3-day Collection is Outdated & Unnecessary“
TRUTH: Due to parasite shedding life cycles, 3 consecutive samples will more thoroughly check for parasites, making it more likely to pick them up compared to collecting one sample.
Myth #2
“There’s No Need for Parasitology via Microscopy Alongside a PCR Test”
TRUTH: Parasitology conducted via Microscopy and via PCR can both detect parasites, however limitations in PCR technology mean that microscopy across 3 separate samples would be more likely to detect certain parasites. GI360 offers the best of both parasite detection methods: Parasitology via microscopy and Multiplex PCR detection using validated probes.
Myth #3
“All MALDI-TOF Lab Testing is the Same”
TRUTH: Many labs are now using MALDI-TOF technology, which allows practitioners to see what is present in the stool (instead of searching for a select list of specific organisms). Doctors Data was the very first functional testing lab to utilise MALDI-TOF (after years of rigorous testing and data analysis). As the reference libraries are instrument company specific, Doctor’s Data now possess the most expansive MALDI-TOF reference database of any lab (currently over 1,400 species of bacteria and fungi) which is constantly growing. This comprehensive library allows them to identify more species, including underreported and even previously unidentified enteric pathogens.
Myth #4
“All PCR Lab Testing is the Same”
TRUTH: Not all PCR probes are validated by the research literature, and there are very few validated PCR probes for parasites. A recent article assessing the accuracy of commercial PCR using unvalidated probes for pathogens found that the PCR assessment made many errors (mistaken identity) and failed to detect many organisms altogether.
All of DDI’s PCR probes are validated and offer very high accuracy and reproducibility. Combining these detection methods covers all the key angles and ensures the best quality results for practitioners and their patients.
