Gastrointestinal (GI) Tract Microbiome Profile (Fecal Sample)
This test analyzes the types and quantities of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes present in your stool. It helps assess your gut health and identify any potential infections or imbalances in your microbiome.
["Understanding your gut’s microbial balance can support digestive health and overall wellness."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 50017-3
- Short code
- Hgb Sput/Gast gastro Ql
- Synonyms
- Hgb Sput/Gast gastro Ql
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- sputum
- Container
- Sterile sputum container
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 10
- Ref high
- 40
- Critical range
- 7 N/A – 20 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84484
- SNOMED
- 302774002
- Specimen volume
- 3-5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does This Test Measure?
Your stool sample will be tested for a variety of microorganisms, including bacteria (e.g., *Escherichia coli*, *Clostridioides difficile*), viruses (e.g., norovirus, rotavirus), fungi (e.g., *Candida*), and other microbes. Advanced techniques like sequencing may identify thousands of different microbial species and their relative abundances.
Why Might You Need This Test?
A GI microbiome test may be recommended if you have symptoms like persistent diarrhea, bloating, abdominal pain, unexplained weight changes, or if you’ve had recent antibiotic use. It can also help diagnose conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or infections that standard stool cultures miss.
Sample Collection and Preparation
You’ll collect a fresh stool sample in a provided sterile container. Avoid using toilet paper or hygiene products in the sample. If you’re using a collection kit, follow the instructions carefully to ensure the sample remains uncontaminated and representative of your gut microbes.
Test Process and Turnaround Time
The sample is processed using advanced molecular techniques (e.g., next-generation sequencing) to identify microbial DNA. Results typically take 7–14 business days, depending on lab workload. Your healthcare provider will discuss findings with you.
Reference range
Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal microbial profiles may indicate infections, dysbiosis (microbial imbalance), or conditions like IBD or IBS. High levels of certain bacteria (e.g., *Clostridioides difficile*) or low diversity may signal digestive issues. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Short name
GI Microbiome Test
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can I eat or drink before giving this stool sample?
Is this test covered by insurance?
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