Faecal DNA Multiplex PCR
$95.80
Targeted stool PCR test detecting key gastrointestinal pathogens — bacteria, parasites, and viruses — with rapid, highly sensitive DNA-based technology. Ideal for patients with acute or chronic digestive symptoms where infection needs to be ruled in or out quickly.
Description
What Is the Faecal DNA Multiplex PCR?
The Faecal DNA Multiplex PCR is a targeted stool test that uses polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology to detect the DNA of specific gastrointestinal pathogens directly in a stool sample. Unlike traditional stool culture, which relies on growing organisms in a lab (and can miss many pathogens), PCR testing identifies organisms at the genetic level — making it faster, more sensitive, and far less likely to return a false negative.
This test is particularly useful when acute or chronic GI symptoms suggest an infectious cause that standard testing has failed to identify.
What Does It Measure?
Bacterial Pathogens
Including Campylobacter, Salmonella, Shigella, Clostridium difficile (C. diff), enterotoxigenic E. coli, and other pathogenic strains. These are common causes of food poisoning, traveller’s diarrhoea, and post-antibiotic gut infections.
Parasites
Including Giardia lamblia, Cryptosporidium, Entamoeba histolytica, Blastocystis hominis, and Dientamoeba fragilis. Parasitic infections are frequently missed by standard pathology and can cause persistent bloating, diarrhoea, and fatigue for months or years.
Viruses
Including Norovirus, Rotavirus, and Adenovirus — common causes of acute gastroenteritis, particularly relevant in outbreak settings or immunocompromised patients.
Who Should Consider This Test?
This test is particularly valuable for patients experiencing:
• Acute diarrhoea, nausea, or vomiting — especially after travel or food exposure
• Chronic or recurrent loose stools that haven’t responded to standard treatment
• Persistent bloating, cramping, or abdominal pain with no clear diagnosis
• Post-antibiotic GI symptoms (suspected C. difficile)
• Symptoms following overseas travel — even months later
• Suspected parasitic infection
• Children or elderly patients with unexplained GI disturbance
Sample Collection
Sample type: Stool sample
Collection method: Single stool collection into a provided specimen container with preservative
Fasting required: No
Diet restrictions: None
Medications: Inform Rohan of any current antibiotic or anti-parasitic use, as these may affect detection sensitivity
Turnaround Time
Results are typically returned within 2.5 weeks from the date the laboratory receives your sample.
What Happens After You Order
1. Kit dispatched — Your collection kit is posted directly to your door with full instructions.
2. Collect at home — Follow the simple stool collection protocol.
3. Post back — Mail the completed kit to the lab using the prepaid return envelope.
4. Results released to you — If you’re an existing patient, Rohan will go through the result with you at your next appointment. If you have your own practitioner, you’re welcome to order through Elemental Health and share the results with them directly.
Why Choose Elemental Health?
Rohan uses PCR-based stool testing as a frontline tool for patients with persistent GI symptoms that standard pathology has failed to explain. Every result is reviewed in the context of your full clinical picture — not just flagged ranges. Your consultation will include a clear, prioritised treatment strategy covering antimicrobial protocols, diet, and any further testing needed.
