Gastrointestinal Screen – Stool Culture (PCR)

£61.00

The Gastrointestinal Screen – Stool Culture (PCR) is an advanced stool test that uses PCR technology to detect the genetic material of bacterial pathogens and parasitic organisms responsible for gastrointestinal infections. Designed to investigate symptoms such as diarrhoea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and suspected foodborne or travel-related illness, this test provides rapid and accurate identification of infectious causes of digestive symptoms. Available at Medical Diagnosis Victoria (MDX Victoria) in London, with results typically available within 6 days from a faeces sample.

Gastrointestinal Diagnostics

Gastrointestinal Screen – Stool Culture (PCR)

This test uses advanced PCR technology to detect the genetic material of bacterial pathogens and parasitic organisms in a stool sample. It provides rapid and specific identification of pathogens causing gastrointestinal symptoms, supporting timely diagnosis and targeted treatment.

📊 Test Specifications

Testing Fee

£61.00

💩

Sample RequiredFaeces Sample

⏱️

Turnaround Time6 Days Processing

Diagnostic Focus

Why Choose This Test?

Symptom Investigation

This profile provides essential clarity if you are experiencing:

  • Persistent or severe diarrhoea
  • Unexplained abdominal pain or cramping
  • Suspected food poisoning or gastrointestinal infection
  • Symptoms following recent travel

Advanced PCR Technology

PCR testing offers significant advantages over traditional cultures:

  • Highly sensitive detection of genetic material
  • More rapid results than waiting for cultures to grow
  • Specific identification of bacterial strains
  • Detects pathogens that may be difficult to culture

Actionable Insights

This detailed internal view empowers you to:

  • Precisely identify the cause of GI distress
  • Guide doctors toward targeted, effective treatments
  • Rule out serious specific bacterial infections
  • Take control of your gut health with clear clinical data

Schedule Your Gastrointestinal Screen

Identify the root cause of your digestive symptoms. Order your stool sample collection kit for rapid laboratory analysis today.

Order Sample Kit

Clinical Environment Consultation

Sample Collection

How It Works

This test requires a stool sample. Upon ordering, you will be provided with a collection container. You can collect the sample privately at home following the simple instructions provided. Return the sample securely to the laboratory, where the sample will be analysed using PCR technology.

Component Index

What Pathogens Are Included?

This PCR panel screens for key bacterial strains commonly responsible for gastrointestinal infections.

Common Foodborne Bacteria

Screens for bacteria frequently linked to food poisoning and contaminated water sources.

Campylobacter spp. (Cam)
Salmonella spp. (Sal)
Clinical focus:
Identifying leading causes of bacterial gastroenteritis.

Specific E. coli & Shigella Strains

Detects specific strains known to cause more severe intestinal symptoms and potential complications.

Escherichia coli O157 STEC (stx1/2)
Shigella spp./EIEC (Sh/EI)
Clinical focus:
Isolating Shiga toxin-producing E. coli and related pathogens.

Understanding PCR Technology

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is a molecular technique that detects the genetic material (DNA) of specific organisms. Unlike traditional stool cultures that rely on growing bacteria in a lab over several days, PCR directly identifies the unique genetic signatures of pathogens, supporting greater accuracy and faster turnaround times.

Pathology Reports

How To Read Your Laboratory Results

Your results will indicate whether the genetic material of any tested pathogens was detected in your sample. A “detected” or “positive” result signifies the presence of that organism. A “not detected” or “negative” result means the tested pathogens were not found.

Results Timeline: Results are typically available within 6 days. Once your results are ready, they will be securely shared with you.

Laboratory Diagnostic Analysis

Clinical Environment Consultation

Medical Consultation

Need Help? Private GP Consultations

If you have questions about your gastrointestinal results, we offer Private GP consultations. A doctor can review your report, explain what the presence of a specific pathogen may mean, and discuss appropriate treatment or follow-up.

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Clinic Support

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I collect the sample?
You will receive a specific collection container. Collect a small stool sample following the instructions provided with the kit and ensure it is sealed securely.

How quickly will I get my results?
Your comprehensive PCR results will be processed and securely delivered within 6 days of the laboratory receiving your sample.

Do I need an appointment?
No. As this is a stool sample test, you do not need a phlebotomy appointment. You simply order the test and return the completed sample kit.

What should I do if a pathogen is detected?
If your results are positive for any tested bacteria, we recommend booking a Private GP consultation with us or contacting your own doctor for appropriate treatment advice.

Are there any dietary restrictions before collecting the sample?
Generally, no special dietary changes are required before collection unless specified by a healthcare provider.

Online Trends

Most Searched Online Questions About Stool PCR Testing

What is a stool PCR test?
A stool PCR test detects the genetic material of specific organisms in a stool sample, helping identify gastrointestinal pathogens quickly and accurately.

Is PCR better than stool culture?
PCR can detect pathogen genetic material directly and may provide faster identification than traditional culture methods, which rely on organisms growing in the laboratory.

Which bacteria are tested?
This panel screens for Campylobacter spp., Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli O157 STEC, and Shigella spp./EIEC.

Can this test help after food poisoning?
Yes. This panel is designed to help detect common bacterial causes of gastrointestinal infection, including organisms linked to food poisoning and contaminated water exposure.

Secure Diagnostics

Ready to Investigate Digestive Symptoms?

Order a Gastrointestinal Screen – Stool Culture (PCR) to support rapid identification of common bacterial causes of gastrointestinal infection.

Clinical indications listed are for general informational purposes only and do not represent a complete list of possible uses, which may vary depending on individual circumstances.

Gastrointestinal Screen – Stool Culture (PCR) results should always be assessed in conjunction with the patient’s medical history, symptoms, clinical examination, travel or food exposure history, and other findings by a qualified healthcare professional.