E. coli Shiga-like Toxin by EIA

Casandra

Casandra Test Code AR54794Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab ARUP LaboratoriesLab Test ID 0060047CPT Code 87427

E. coli Shiga-like Toxin by EIA

Also known as: ECSLT AG

Clinical Use

Order Test

Use

The test detects Shiga toxins, which are sensitive markers of toxigenic Escherichia coli. It is widely recommended by the CDC to culture stool specimens for E. coli O157:H7 (O157 STEC) when performing this test. Detection of Shiga-like toxins is critical as these toxins may be produced by numerous serotypes of E. coli as well as by Shigella dysenteriae type 1 strains. The level of toxin does not correlate with the severity of disease, and a positive result does not exclude infection caused by another enteric pathogen.

Special Instructions

Place 5 mL stool in enteric transport media (Cary-Blair) immediately after collection. The enteric transport is available through ARUP Supply or by contacting ARUP Client Services. Refrigerate stool specimens for transport to ensure sample stability. The test is performed every day of the week, from Sunday to Saturday.

Limitations

This test identifies the presence of E. coli Shiga-like toxin but cannot determine specific strains of E. coli, such as E. coli O157:H7. A negative test result does not exclude the diagnosis of hemorrhagic colitis.

Test Details