GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT INFECTION TEST

Understanding Digestive Infections

Gastrointestinal (GI) infections develop when harmful microorganisms—such as bacteria, viruses, or parasites—enter and disrupt the digestive system. These infections can affect various parts of the gut, including the stomach, intestines, and colon, and often cause symptoms like diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and fever. While many cases resolve on their own, some can progress to more serious conditions if left undiagnosed or untreated.

Common sources of infection include unsafe food or water, poor hygiene, or direct exposure to infected individuals. For vulnerable groups—such as young children, older adults, or people with compromised immune systems—GI infections can lead to complications like dehydration, nutrient deficiencies, and even hospitalization. Early detection is essential for protecting both personal health and public safety.

What the Test Is and How It Works

At Precise Care Clinical Lab, we utilize advanced multiplex PCR technology to detect a wide range of gastrointestinal pathogens from just one stool sample. Unlike traditional culture tests that may take days and miss certain organisms, our method delivers fast, reliable results—usually within 24 hours—and detects even hard-to-identify infections.

Our comprehensive GI panel screens for:

• Bacterial infections such as Salmonella, Shigella, E. coli (various strains), Campylobacter, Clostridioides difficile, Vibrio species, and more.
• Viral infections including Norovirus, Rotavirus, Adenovirus, Sapovirus, and Astrovirus.
• Parasitic infections like Giardia lamblia, Cryptosporidium, and Entamoeba histolytica.

With this detailed analysis, healthcare providers can make informed decisions quickly, ensuring appropriate treatment and helping reduce the unnecessary use of antibiotics.