GI Pathogen Screen versus Comprehensive Digestive Stool Analysis

[DrWoeller]

Hello,

We just wrapped up an extensive presentation on stool testing and parasitology. Unfortunately, Brian (the tech guy) had a power outage on his end which disrupted the actual recording of the lecture for Module #2. It fortunately didn’t disrupt our ability to give the lecture, but there is no recording. Therefore, we are going to do it again and are looking at some times and dates later this week. We will let you know.

The topic of stool testing can be confusing as to which one to use in what clinical situation. Here are thoughts and general recommendations:

1 – The top labs in the industry, i.e. BioHealth, Genova, Great Plains provide quality stool testing, but none of them are perfect in everything analyzed.
2 – The BioHealth Laboratory #401-H is our preferred stool test for straightforward parasite and H. pylori testing. This is done in a patient where there is obvious digestive system problems, i.e. loose stools, mixed pattern (diarrhea/constipation), gas, bloating, reflux, etc. The test is generally less expensive than a Comprehensive Digestive Stool Analysis and the goal is to rule in or rule out pathogens. This also looks for C. difficile. In most patients this will give you the information you need when used alone or together with an Organic Acids Test for people dealing with gastrointestinal distress.
3 – The Comprehensive Digestive Stool Analysis is an all around test that is more expansive, but often gives up some of the parasite detection capabilities, and the specificity for H. pylori and C. difficle. It is very useful in children dealing with allergies, special needs (autism), poor growth, and poor digestive health. Also, in adults with chronic allergies, asthma, etc., it can be useful too. The reason is the expanded list of bacteria, along with digestive markers and inflammation.

Both tests work well with the Organic Acids Test which provides more specifics with regards to candida toxins and clostridia bacteria toxins.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Sincerely,
Dr. Woeller

[DrWoeller]

A few more things about GI Pathogen Testing and the Comprehensive Digestive Stool Analysis.

Ideally, it would be great to do the GI Pathogen Screen from BioHealth and the Comprehensive Digestive Stool Analysis (from Great Plains, or other lab) together. Short of the PCR analysis offered by some labs (but often too sensitive for detection), combining these two profiles would provide significant information with overall digestive health and pathogens. If a patient can afford to do both then this is a great route to go.

Unfortunately, as practitioners we are often challenged with having to make a decision regarding which stool test to do for a given patient. Hopefully, my previous post will help with that decision making.

Again, please feel free to post us your questions, patient scenarios, etc. and we can work together to determine the best options for testing.

Sincerely,
Dr. Woeller

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