Fecal DNA Fold Change (Quantitative) for Pathogenic Bacteria Detection
This test measures changes in DNA from specific bacteria in your stool. It helps identify if harmful bacteria are present at higher or lower levels than expected.
["This test may help detect infections linked to certain bacteria in your digestive system."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 106592-9
- Short code
- E faecium DNA Fld Ql NAA+n-prb
- Synonyms
- E faecium DNA Fld Ql NAA+n-prb
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- non-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
What This Test Measures
The test looks for DNA from bacteria in your stool sample. It compares the amount of DNA to a standard, showing whether certain bacteria are more or less common than usual. This can indicate if an infection is active or if bacteria are behaving differently than expected.
How the Test Works
Your stool sample is analyzed using advanced techniques to detect bacterial DNA. The test quantifies how much DNA is present and compares it to a baseline or reference level, often expressed as a fold change. This helps determine if bacterial levels are elevated or reduced.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal pain, or if you’ve been exposed to certain bacteria. It can also be used to monitor infections or check for bacteria that may cause illness in your digestive tract.
Sample Collection and Preparation
You’ll need to collect a fresh stool sample in a provided container. The sample should be delivered to the lab as soon as possible for accurate results. Follow your provider’s instructions carefully to ensure the sample is handled properly.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Fecal DNA Fold Change Test
Frequently asked questions
This test is useful for identifying potential bacterial infections in the gastrointestinal tract. It can help confirm or rule out infections caused by specific bacteria, which may guide treatment decisions. However, it’s not a definitive test for all infections and should be interpreted alongside other clinical findings.
A positive result suggests that the levels of certain bacterial DNA in your stool are higher or lower than expected. This may indicate an infection or changes in bacterial balance, but it doesn’t always mean you’re sick. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you and may recommend further testing or treatment.
This test focuses on specific bacteria that are commonly associated with infections. It may not detect all possible bacteria in your stool, so it’s best used as part of a broader evaluation.
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