Gastrointestinal Screen - Bacteria LIS Code: SH25

Sample Requirements:

Turnaround Time:

6 days

Special Instructions:

Stool sample required. Collect in a sterile container. Avoid contamination with urine or water.

Gastrointestinal (GI) Screen

Comprehensive Test for Detecting Bacterial Causes of Gastrointestinal Infections

The Gastrointestinal (GI) Screen is a diagnostic test designed to detect the presence of harmful bacteria responsible for gastrointestinal infections. These infections can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, cramps, fever, and other digestive disturbances. This screening plays a vital role in identifying the cause of symptoms and guiding appropriate treatment.

What Can This Test Detect?

This GI panel screens for several common bacterial pathogens:

Salmonella spp.: Causes gastroenteritis with symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, and fever. Symptoms usually begin 12–72 hours after exposure.

Campylobacter spp.: One of the leading causes of bacterial diarrhea. Symptoms include abdominal pain and fever, typically appearing 2–5 days after infection.

Escherichia coli (E. coli 0157): Certain strains can cause severe gastroenteritis, with symptoms developing 2–5 days post-exposure.

Shigella spp. / Enteroinvasive E. coli (EIEC): Causes shigellosis, characterized by diarrhea, cramps, and fever. Symptoms typically begin 1–3 days after exposure.

Yersinia enterocolitica: Can cause infection with symptoms similar to appendicitis, including diarrhea and abdominal pain, appearing 1–3 days after infection.

STEC (Shiga toxin-producing E. coli): A particularly dangerous strain that can lead to severe illness and complications.

Clostridium difficile Toxin A/B: Associated with antibiotic use and responsible for C. diff infections, which can cause persistent diarrhea and colitis.

Who Should Take This Test?

This test is recommended for individuals who are:

Experiencing persistent or severe gastrointestinal symptoms

Suspected to have foodborne or bacterial infections

Returning from travel to areas with a high risk of GI infections

Experiencing outbreaks of GI illness in communal settings (e.g., schools, care homes)

Exams Included

Campylobacter spp.

Clostridium difficile Toxin A/B

E. coli 0157

Salmonella spp.

Shigella spp. / EIEC

STEC (Shiga toxin-producing E. coli)

Yersinia enterocolitica

Key Benefits

Provides a fast, accurate diagnosis of common bacterial GI infections

Helps guide targeted treatment and avoid unnecessary antibiotics

Reduces risk of complications from untreated infections

Essential for outbreak control and public health monitoring

If you're experiencing digestive symptoms or have recently been exposed to contaminated food or water, the GI Screen is a critical first step toward accurate diagnosis and effective care.