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Description:
This test helps detect abnormal levels of specific yeast species in the stool to tailor treatment for patients with chronic gastrointestinal and extra-gastrointestinal symptoms. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing to prescriptive and natural agents is also performed for appropriate fungal species at no additional charge. This provides useful clinical information to help plan an appropriate treatment protocol.
Yeast infections can cause many symptoms inside and outside of the gastrointestinal region. In many cases, a yeast infection may escape suspicion as a pathogen. There is controversy around 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 relating 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. Identification of abnormal levels of specific yeast species in a patient's stool is an important diagnostic step toward therapeutic planning for a patient with chronic gastrointestinal and extra-gastrointestinal symptoms.