Clostridioides difficile Toxins A and B, EIA
Also known as: Antibiotic-associated Colitis Toxin Test, Pseudomembranous Colitis Toxin Assay
Use
Aid in the diagnosis of antibiotic-associated diarrheal disease and pseudomembranous colitis
Special Instructions
A separate specimen is required for culture or for the toxin B cytotoxin assay.
Limitations
The sensitivity of detecting toxins A and B by enzyme immunoassay approaches 90%, and multiple specimens may need to be tested. Performance characteristics have not been established for a pediatric population. Routine use of culture is not recommended due to the costs and high rate of recovery of strains not producing toxin.
Methodology
Immunoassay (EIA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 34468-9
- 34468-9
Result Turnaround Time
1-2 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Stool
Volume
5 g
Minimum Volume
0.5 g or 0.5 mL liquid stool
Container
Sterile screw-cap container or stool transport (Para-Pak® white clean vial), no preservative
Storage Instructions
Specimen should be kept refrigerated and transported to the laboratory within 24 hours of collection. If a longer period is required, the specimen should be frozen at -20°C or lower.
Causes for Rejection
Specimens from patients less than two years of age; inappropriate specimen transport conditions (e.g., room temperature) or transport device; unlabeled specimen or name discrepancy between specimen and request label; specimen received after prolonged delay (usually more than 72 hours); specimens other than stool; leaking specimen; specimen received in denture cup, "Cool Whip" container, margarine container, or similar container
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | Up to 72 hours from collection |
| Frozen | After 72 hours |
Other tests from different labs that may be relevant