Description

The Diarrhea Infection Blood Panel is designed to identify the underlying cause of infectious diarrhea, a common condition resulting from gastrointestinal infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. These infections are often transmitted through contaminated food, water, or close contact with infected individuals. Detecting the specific pathogen is crucial for determining appropriate treatment and preventing complications or transmission.

When to Consider This Panel:

This test is recommended for individuals experiencing:

  • Acute or persistent diarrhea
  • Abdominal cramping and pain
  • Fever or signs of infection
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Dehydration
  • Recent travel to areas with poor sanitation

Pathogen Detection Included in the Panel:

This panel screens for a broad range of pathogens that are common culprits of infectious diarrhea. Detection of these pathogens serves as a biomarker for identifying the presence and type of infection:

Bacterial Pathogens (Bacterial Biomarkers):

  • C. difficile Toxin A/B – Common in healthcare settings; may result from recent antibiotic use.
  • Campylobacter spp. – A leading cause of bacterial gastroenteritis, often linked to undercooked poultry.
  • Salmonella spp. – Frequently associated with contaminated eggs, meat, or produce.
  • Shigella/E. coli (EIEC) – A major cause of dysentery, spread through contaminated water or food.
  • Yersinia enterocolitica – Can mimic appendicitis; found in contaminated pork.
  • Vibrio spp. & Vibrio cholerae – Typically found in undercooked seafood or contaminated water.
  • Plesiomonas shigelloides – Found in freshwater environments, associated with raw fish.
  • E. coli (EAEC, EPEC, ETEC, STEC, O157) – Several pathogenic strains of E. coli cause different types of diarrhea, some leading to serious complications like hemolytic uremic syndrome (especially O157:H7).

Parasitic Pathogens (Parasitic Biomarkers):

  • Cryptosporidium spp.
  • Cyclospora cayetanensis
  • Entamoeba histolytica
  • Giardia lamblia
  • These parasites are waterborne and often cause persistent diarrhea, especially in travelers or immunocompromised individuals.

Viral Pathogens (Viral Biomarkers):

  • Adenovirus F40/41
  • Astrovirus
  • Norovirus GI/GII
  • Rotavirus A
  • Sapovirus
  • These viruses are highly contagious and are common causes of outbreaks in schools, nursing homes, and cruise ships.

Biomarkers and Their Role

The presence of specific microbial DNA or antigens in the blood or stool sample is used as a biomarker to confirm infection by a particular pathogen. Identifying the biomarker enables healthcare providers to:

  • Pinpoint the causative agent of diarrhea
  • Guide appropriate treatment (e.g., antibiotics, antiparasitics, or supportive care)
  • Prevent complications, including dehydration or spread to others

Preparation

  • Fasting: Not required

Conclusion

The Diarrhea Infection Blood Panel offers comprehensive testing for a wide range of bacterial, viral, and parasitic pathogens. By identifying the biomarkers of infection, this panel helps healthcare providers accurately diagnose the cause of diarrhea and develop effective treatment strategies, improving recovery and reducing the risk of complications or transmission.