Tropical Disease Panel – *Nucleic Acid Amplification Probe* (e.g., for *Giardia*, *Cryptosporidium*, *Entamoeba*, *Cyclospora*, *Isospora*)
This test detects genetic material from certain microscopic parasites that may cause gastrointestinal infections in tropical or travel-related settings. It helps confirm infections like giardiasis, cryptosporidiosis, or amoebiasis.
["A quick way to check for parasites linked to travel or exposure in tropical regions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 101121-2
- Short code
- CANATROP
- Synonyms
- C albicans+tropicalis DNA Bld Ql NAA probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- EDTA (purple-top) tube or specialized blood culture/PCR collection tube; sterile DNA-free blood collection container recommended
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- CPT
- 87481
- SNOMED
- 122486003
- Specimen volume
- 3-5 mL of whole blood; minimum 1 mL for pediatric or limited-volume samples
- Stability
- Refrigerated (2-8°C) for up to 7 days; frozen (-20°C or below) acceptable for longer storage up to 4 weeks; transport at 2-8°C
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 6–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test uses a specialized probe to identify genetic sequences unique to specific parasites. These sequences are found in stool samples and can indicate an active infection. The probe targets DNA from organisms like *Giardia lamblia*, *Cryptosporidium parvum*, or *Entamoeba histolytica*, among others.
How the Test Works
The test involves collecting a stool sample, which is then analyzed using a nucleic acid amplification technique. This method amplifies and detects the parasite’s genetic material, allowing for highly sensitive detection even in low infection loads.
Why It’s Used
Doctors may order this test if you’ve traveled to tropical regions, have symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal pain, or nausea, or if you’ve been exposed to contaminated water. It’s particularly useful for diagnosing infections that standard stool cultures might miss.
Common Symptoms to Watch For
Symptoms of tropical parasites may include persistent diarrhea, stomach cramps, bloating, nausea, vomiting, or dehydration. Some infections can also cause fever or blood in the stool. If you experience these symptoms after travel or exposure, your doctor may recommend this test.
Reference range
Negative (Not Detected) for Candida albicans DNA and Candida tropicalis DNAN/A
No special patient preparation or fasting required. Specimen should be collected prior to initiation of antifungal therapy when possible, as antimicrobial agents may reduce organism load and affect detection sensitivity
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Tropical Parasite DNA Probe Test
Frequently asked questions
What does this test tell me about my health?
Will this test show all possible infections?
How soon will I get results?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy