Gastrointestinal Diseases

Express Lab provides specialized testing to support gastroenterologists in diagnosing and managing a wide range of digestive and liver conditions. Our gastrointestinal test offerings include evaluations for liver function, pancreatic enzymes, inflammatory markers, and celiac disease, among others. These precise and reliable results help identify underlying causes of gastrointestinal symptoms and guide effective treatment plans.

With a focus on accuracy, efficiency, and clinical partnership, we deliver the diagnostic insights gastroenterology specialists rely on for optimal patient care.

Stool PCR Pathogen Panel

Overview

Stool PCR testing at ExpressLab provides rapid, sensitive detection of common bacterial, parasitic, and viral gastrointestinal pathogens using molecular (PCR) technology. This testing supports timely diagnosis of infectious diarrhea, helps guide treatment decisions, and reduces unnecessary empiric therapy.

Why This Test Is Ordered

Stool PCR testing is recommended for patients with:

• Acute or persistent diarrhea
• Bloody stools or severe abdominal symptoms
• Recent antibiotic exposure or healthcare-associated diarrhea
• Recent travel, foodborne exposure, or contaminated water exposure
• Immunocompromised status, pediatric, or elderly patients
• Suspected outbreak or community-acquired GI illness

Clinical Use

PCR-based stool testing allows for simultaneous detection of multiple pathogens with higher sensitivity and faster turnaround than traditional culture or antigen-based methods. Results help clinicians:

• Identify infectious causes of diarrhea
• Distinguish bacterial, viral, and parasitic etiologies
• Avoid unnecessary antibiotics or anti-motility agents
• Implement targeted therapy and infection control measures

Test Details

Pathogens detected include:

Bacterial Targets

• Clostridioides difficile (toxin gene)
• Salmonella
• Campylobacter
• Shigella / Enteroinvasive E. coli (EIEC)
• Shiga toxin-producing coli (stx1/stx2)
• Enterotoxigenic coli (ETEC lt/st)
• Plesiomonas shigelloides
• Yersinia enterocolitica
• Vibrio cholerae

Parasitic Targets

• Giardia
• Cryptosporidium
• Entamoeba histolytica

Viral Targets

• Adenovirus F40/41
• Astrovirus
• Norovirus GI/GII
• Rotavirus A
• Sapovirus (I, II, IV, V)

Specimen Requirements

• Raw stool specimen required
• Refrigerate immediately after collection
• Acceptable for testing up to 5 days refrigerated
• Collect in a clean, leak-proof container

PDF Resources

• Stool PCR Testing Overview PDF
• Stool Chart
• Quick Reference Stool Test Guide

Express Lab Advantage

Express Lab offers comprehensive GI pathogen testing with molecular precision, fast turnaround times, and direct provider support, helping gastroenterologists deliver efficient, evidence-based care. For stool tests not listed, or for assistance with test selection, coding, or collection instructions, providers are encouraged to contact us directly at 208-529-8330. Providers may also fill out this online form.