Paracitology with PCR Stool Test
Please note: this is a results-only service. Your test report will be provided for your own review, and no consultation or personalised interpretation is included.
The Parasitology with PCR profile by Doctor`s Data, offers a targeted assessment for parasitic infections using a stool sample. This test combines DNA-based PCR technology with microscopy to enhance detection accuracy. Depending on preference, collection can be completed over one, two, or three days, increasing the likelihood of identifying intermittent parasite shedding.
Parasitic infections are often overlooked in chronic health conditions because their symptoms can mimic many other disorders. Identifying parasites is essential for understanding the root causes of persistent gut symptoms and uncovering hidden contributors to inflammation, immune dysfunction, and nutrient malabsorption.
Sample type:
STOOL
What this test screens for:
Microscopy evaluates a broad spectrum of intestinal parasites, including (but not limited to):
Protozoa:
Balantidium coli, Blastocystis spp., Chilomastix mesnili, Dientamoeba fragilis, Endolimax nana, Entamoeba coli, Entamoeba hartmanni, Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (pathogenic and non-pathogenic variants), Entamoeba polecki, Enteromonas hominis, Giardia duodenalis (intestinalis/lamblia), Iodamoeba bütschlii, Isospora belli, Pentatrichomonas hominis, Retortamonas intestinalis
Nematodes (roundworms):
Ascaris lumbricoides, Capillaria species, Enterobius vermicularis, Strongyloides stercoralis, Trichuris trichiura, Hookworm
Cestodes (tapeworms):
Diphyllobothrium latum, Dipylidium caninum, Hymenolepis nana/diminuta, Taenia species
Trematodes (flukes):
Clonorchis sinensis, Fasciola species, Heterophyes heterophyes, Paragonimus westermani
Microscopy also checks for additional indicators of gut dysfunction such as:
- Yeast levels
- Red and white blood cells
- Muscle and vegetable fibres
- Charcot–Leyden crystals
- Pollen
- Presence of mucus
PCR (DNA analysis) specifically detects:
- Cryptosporidium (C. parvum and C. hominis)
- Entamoeba histolytica
- Giardia duodenalis
This comprehensive combination increases diagnostic accuracy, as some parasites are better detected by DNA methods and others by microscopy.
When should you consider this test?
Consider this test if you suspect parasitic involvement in chronic or unexplained symptoms. Parasitic infections may contribute to:
- Persistent digestive issues (diarrhoea, constipation, bloating, abdominal pain)
- IBS/IBD-type symptoms
- Nutrient deficiencies and malabsorption
- Food sensitivities
- Skin issues
- Fatigue and systemic inflammation
- Autoimmune tendencies
- Increased intestinal permeability
Because parasitic symptoms often resemble other conditions, targeted testing can be essential for accurate identification and effective treatment planning.
