GI Effects Gut Pathogen Profile #2207

Description

The GI Effects™ Gut Pathogen Profile is a focused stool test designed to identify infectious organisms in the gastrointestinal tract, using a combination of PCR-based DNA detection and traditional culture methods.

This test provides clinically relevant insights into parasitic infections, bacterial pathogens, yeast overgrowth, and Helicobacter pylori, helping clinicians identify the root cause of acute or chronic gastrointestinal symptoms.

Unlike broader functional stool tests, this panel focuses specifically on infection detection rather than overall gut function or metabolism.

What This Test Measures

1. Parasitic Pathogens (PCR-Based Detection)

• Blastocystis spp.
• Dientamoeba fragilis
• Giardia, Cryptosporidium

👉 Detected using DNA-based PCR for improved sensitivity

2. Bacterial Pathogens

• Yersinia enterocolitica
• Salmonella, Shigella (culture)

👉 Combines culture and antigen detection methods

3. H. pylori (Stool Antigen Test)

• Detects active infection

👉 Useful for diagnosing ulcers and gastric inflammation

4. Yeast & Fungal Overgrowth

• Candida species
• KOH preparation for yeast

👉 Detects fungal imbalance and overgrowth

5. Culture-Based Microbiology & Sensitivity

• Identifies bacterial overgrowth
• Provides antibiotic sensitivity data

👉 Helps guide treatment decisions

Technology Used

• PCR (DNA detection for parasites)
• Culture & MALDI-TOF identification
• Microscopy (O&P)

👉 Multi-method approach increases detection coverage

Clinical Insights

• Identifies gastrointestinal infections
• Detects parasitic infestations
• Evaluates yeast overgrowth
• Supports targeted antimicrobial therapy

Limitations (Important — builds trust)

• Limited microbiome analysis
• Does not assess digestion or metabolic function
• No SCFA or inflammatory biomarker depth

GI Effects™ Pathogen Profile vs GI-MAP®

👉 GI-MAP® provides more advanced and quantitative pathogen analysis