Gut infection PCR stool test in Chiswick

What the test measures

PCR (polymerase chain reaction) detects tiny amounts of DNA or RNA from organisms in a stool sample. A gut infection panel tests for several causes of gastroenteritis at once, which typically include bacteria such as Campylobacter, Salmonella and Shigella, parasites such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium, and viruses such as norovirus. The exact list is shown on the page above.

PCR is more sensitive than traditional stool culture, which helps when symptoms have gone on for a while or a previous test was unclear. Because it detects genetic material, it can sometimes pick up an organism that is no longer causing illness, so findings are always read alongside your symptoms. You collect the stool sample at home with the kit provided and return it to us.

The price includes your sample at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a review of your result with an Omnia practitioner, and a GP feedback report on request.

Who it is for

• You have had diarrhoea for more than a week, or it keeps returning.
• You became unwell during or after travel abroad.
• You have cramps, bloating and loose stools after a suspected food poisoning episode.
• You have been in contact with someone who has a confirmed gut infection.
• Your practitioner wants to rule in or out an infection before exploring other causes of bowel symptoms.

Understanding your result

Your report lists each organism tested and whether it was detected. If nothing is detected, an infection with the organisms on the panel is unlikely, and your practitioner may discuss other causes such as irritable bowel syndrome, coeliac disease or inflammation. If an organism is detected, your practitioner explains what it usually means and whether you should speak to your GP about treatment.

Most gut infections settle on their own with fluids and rest, and many do not need antibiotics. A detected organism is a prompt for discussion, not a full diagnosis. Some infections must be reported to public health by the laboratory or clinician. If you have blood in your stool, signs of dehydration, a high fever or severe pain, seek medical care through NHS 111, your GP or A&E.

Preparing for your test

Eat and drink as normal before collecting. Collect a sample of loose or formed stool into the pot provided, using the scoop in the lid, without contamination from urine or toilet water. Return it on the day of collection. Tell us about any antibiotics or anti-diarrhoea medicines you have taken recently.

If your symptoms persist after an infection has been ruled out, Calprotectin looks for bowel inflammation and our coeliac blood tests check for coeliac disease. Visit every blood test and price in Chiswick for more options.

Questions

How much is a gut infection PCR test in Chiswick?

The gut infection PCR stool test costs £199 when the sample is returned to our Chiswick clinic. This includes analysis at the accredited laboratory, a practitioner review and a GP feedback report on request.

Will this test find H. pylori?

No. H. pylori is a stomach infection tested for separately, using a stool antigen or blood antibody test.

Can PCR detect an infection that has already cleared?

Sometimes. PCR can find genetic material for a while after symptoms settle, which is why your practitioner reads the findings with your history.

Should I stop eating before giving a sample?

No. Eat and drink as usual and focus on staying hydrated. Simply collect the sample as directed.