Stool Culture and E. coli Shiga-like Toxin by EIA
Also known as: MC SSC
Use
This test is used for the evaluation of suspected bacterial diarrhea. It includes cultures for pathogens such as Salmonella, Shigella, Campylobacter, E. coli O157, Aeromonas, and Plesiomonas, and an enzyme immunoassay (EIA) for the detection of Shiga-like toxins produced by E. coli. The test is helpful in diagnosing bacterial infections responsible for gastrointestinal distress and can help rule out several potential pathogens as causes for infectious diarrhea.
Special Instructions
Negative culture results are reported within 5 days; if positive results are detected, they are reported as soon as identified. Proper specimen collection and transport using enteric transport media is crucial to ensure the quality of the analysis.
Limitations
Testing does not include Clostridium difficile, for which separate PCR testing is recommended. Identification and susceptibility tests for select pathogens are billed separately from the stool culture. If the presence of Shiga-like toxins is suspected, individual testing for this toxin may be required.
New York Approved
Methodology
Culture-based
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 625-4
Result Turnaround Time
1-5 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Stool
Volume
5 mL
Minimum Volume
1 mL
Container
Enteric transport media (Cary-Blair)
Collection Instructions
Place stool in enteric transport media immediately after collection.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated transport is required.
Causes for Rejection
Multiple specimens (more than one in 24 hours). Delayed transport without use of appropriate transport media.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 1 hour |
| Refrigerated | 72 hours |
| Frozen | Unacceptable |