GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT

Specimen type

A. Faeces

Optimal time of specimen collection

Correct specimen type and method of collection

Collect several grams of faeces (2-3 scoops) into a blue faeces container at the time the patient has diarrhoea. Some enteric pathogens are only sought if appropriate clinical details are given. Please ensure that the laboratory is provided with as much information as possible to ensure appropriate examination. This is particularly important in the case of suspected outbreaks or if a patient has recently travelled abroad.

Quantity and number of specimens

Repeat samples for Cl. difficile testing should NOT normally be sent.

Laboratory analysis

A comprehensive service is offered for enteric pathogens. This includes:

Culture for Salmonella, Shigella, Campylobacter, E. coli O157, Yersinia and if appropriate travel and clinical history which is to also include Vibrio cholerae.

Toxin testing for Clostridium difficile. Clostridium difficile toxin testing will only be done on unformed faeces samples.

Microscopy: Giardia lamblia, Cryptosporidium and other parasites are sought on request. If threadworm is suspected, please send sellotape slides - kits are available from Outfits on ext. 4773.

Viral screening is available in certain situations. Separate sample need to be sent for virology investigation. (see Virology section).

Electron microscopy by special arrangement (eg immunocompromised patients), following discussion with Consultant Microbiologist.

	Specimen type	A. Faeces
	Optimal time of specimen collection
	Correct specimen type and method of collection	Collect several grams of faeces (2-3 scoops) into a blue faeces container at the time the patient has diarrhoea. Some enteric pathogens are only sought if appropriate clinical details are given. Please ensure that the laboratory is provided with as much information as possible to ensure appropriate examination. This is particularly important in the case of suspected outbreaks or if a patient has recently travelled abroad.
	Quantity and number of specimens	Repeat samples for Cl. difficile testing should NOT normally be sent.
	Laboratory analysis	A comprehensive service is offered for enteric pathogens. This includes: Culture for Salmonella, Shigella, Campylobacter, E. coli O157, Yersinia and if appropriate travel and clinical history which is to also include Vibrio cholerae. Toxin testing for Clostridium difficile. Clostridium difficile toxin testing will only be done on unformed faeces samples. Microscopy: Giardia lamblia, Cryptosporidium and other parasites are sought on request. If threadworm is suspected, please send sellotape slides - kits are available from Outfits on ext. 4773. Viral screening is available in certain situations. Separate sample need to be sent for virology investigation. (see Virology section). Electron microscopy by special arrangement (eg immunocompromised patients), following discussion with Consultant Microbiologist.