Campylobacter Culture, Feces
Use
The test determines if Campylobacter species are present in feces and may be causing diarrhea. It is especially useful for reflexive testing from nucleic acid amplification test-positive feces. The test may not be suitable for patients hospitalized more than 3 days as the pathogen yield tends to be low in these cases.
Special Instructions
Minnesota healthcare providers are required to report all confirmed or suspected cases of campylobacteriosis to the Minnesota Department of Health. Mayo Clinic Laboratories clients should check local health department requirements for isolate submission.
Limitations
The test is less effective for patients hospitalized more than 3 days due to low pathogen yield in feces. Proper specimen transport is critical, as the yield of Campylobacter is reduced if specimens are delayed more than 2 hours without preservation.
Methodology
Culture-based
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 6331-3
Result Turnaround Time
4-6 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Stool
Volume
Representative portion
Minimum Volume
1 mL
Container
Commercially available transport system specific for recovery of enteric pathogens
Collection Instructions
Collect fresh feces and submit 1 gram or 5 mL in a container with transport medium. Place feces in preservative within 2 hours of collection, then in a sealed plastic bag.
Patient Preparation
Patient should not use barium or bismuth for 7 to 10 days before collection.
Causes for Rejection
Unpreserved feces; ECOFIX preservative; Formalin or PVA fixative; Specimen in buffered glycerol saline transport media
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 4 days |
| Refrigerated | 4 days |
