Escherichia coli (E. coli) DNA in stool by nucleic acid amplification probe test
This test detects genetic material from *Escherichia coli* bacteria in your stool. It helps identify if harmful bacteria are present, which may indicate an infection.
["This test checks for harmful bacteria in your stool that may cause illness."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 44088-3
- Short code
- E coli O157H7 DNA Spec NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- E coli O157H7 DNA Spec NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like diarrhea (especially with blood or mucus), abdominal pain, fever, or if you’ve been exposed to food or water that could contain contaminated bacteria. It’s also used in certain screening or monitoring situations, such as after travel to areas with higher infection risks or in people with weakened immune systems.
How the Test Works
A small sample of your stool is collected and tested for genetic material from *E. coli*. This is done using a specialized probe that detects specific DNA sequences unique to the bacteria. The test is highly sensitive and can help confirm an infection even when other tests are inconclusive.
Sample Collection and Preparation
You’ll need to provide a fresh stool sample, ideally collected in a sterile container. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for proper sample handling to ensure accurate results. Do not use toilet paper or cleaning products in the sample.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but avoid using antibiotics or certain laxatives that could affect the test results. If you’re on a long-term medication, discuss it with your provider.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results indicate the presence of *E. coli* DNA, which may suggest an infection. While *E. coli* can cause mild to severe gastrointestinal issues, some strains are more harmful than others. This test helps guide treatment decisions, such as antibiotics or changes in diet, and can be crucial for diagnosing conditions like traveler’s diarrhea, food poisoning, or urinary tract infections linked to contaminated water or food.
Short name
E. coli DNA stool test
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can I eat or drink before the test?
How soon will I get my 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