Microbiology Profile-Doctor’s Data Kit

Note: This is a home collection test kit that will be mailed to you.

Fasting Required: No

Specimen: Stool

Special Instructions:
Ship to lab Monday-Thursday only.
If you are taking antifungal or antibiotic medications, please finish the course of medication, and then wait three days before starting this collection. Please refrain from taking digestive enzymes, antacids, and aspirin for two days prior to and during the specimen collection and refrain from taking probiotic supplements for two weeks prior to specimen collection unless otherwise by your physician

Results: 10-14 Business Days

Description:
The Microbiology profile includes comprehensive bacteriology and yeast cultures to identify the presence of beneficial flora, imbalanced flora including Clostridium species, and dysbiotic flora, as well as detection of infectious pathogens.

A good balance of beneficial microflora has been known to be associated with health benefits since the turn of the century.
The mechanisms by which these benefits are derived are not yet fully understood. However, research suggests that some of the beneficial effects may be due to the following activities of beneficial bacteria:

  • Release of substances antagonistic to enteropathogenic microorganisms such as lactocidin, lactobicillin and acidolin
  • Competition with pathogens for adhesion receptors
  • Production of lactase
  • Production of short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) such as butyrate, propionate and acetate.

In a healthy balanced state of intestinal flora, the beneficial bacteria make up a significant proportion of the total microflora. However, in many individuals we see an imbalance of beneficial bacteria and an overgrowth of non-beneficial or even pathogenic microorganisms—dysbiosis. This can be due to a variety of factors including:

  • Daily exposure to chemicals in drinking water that kill friendly bacteria
  • The use of antibiotics
  • Chronic consumption of highly processed foods (low in fiber, high in sugar)
  • High stress levels

Infection with yeast species can cause a variety of symptoms, and in many cases, may escape suspicion as a pathogenic agent. Controversy remains as to the relationship between Candida infection and episodes of recurrent diarrhea. However, episodes of yeast infection after short-term and long-term antibiotic use have been identified in patients with both gastrointestinal and vaginal symptoms.

There is some evidence linking yeast infections with more chronic extra-gastrointestinal conditions. Studies suggest that the production of antibodies against Candida albicans may contribute to atopic dermatitis in young adults. Other studies have identified the potential role of candidiasis in chronic fatigue syndrome.

Note: Result turnaround times are an estimate and are not guaranteed. Our reference lab may need additional time due to weather, holidays, confirmation/repeat testing, or equipment maintenance.

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