Enterococcal DNA in Stool (Qualitative Probe)
This test checks for the presence of genetic material from certain bacteria called enterococci in your stool. It helps determine if these bacteria may be causing an infection.
["Assists in identifying potential bacterial infections in the digestive tract."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 71718-1
- Short code
- Enterococ DNA Spec Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- Enterococ DNA Spec Ql 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
What This Test Measures
The test detects genetic material (DNA) from enterococci, a group of bacteria commonly found in the intestines. While many are harmless, some strains can cause infections, especially in vulnerable populations like newborns, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like persistent diarrhea, fever, or signs of infection after undergoing certain medical procedures (e.g., bowel surgery, catheter use). It’s also used in newborns or patients with compromised immune systems to monitor for infections.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A stool sample is collected in a sterile container. The DNA from enterococci (if present) is extracted and analyzed using a specialized probe to identify genetic markers unique to these bacteria.
Test Limitations and Considerations
This is a qualitative test, meaning it only tells whether enterococcal DNA is present or not, not the quantity. False positives or negatives can occur due to sample contamination, processing errors, or the presence of other bacteria with similar DNA sequences.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results may indicate an enterococcal infection, prompting further testing (e.g., culture) or targeted antibiotics. Negative results suggest no detectable enterococci in the sample, but other causes of symptoms (e.g., viral infections, non-bacterial conditions) should still be considered. Results guide treatment decisions but are not definitive alone.
Short name
Stool Enterococcal DNA Probe
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can false positives occur?
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