Your Gut Microbiota Holds The Key To Better Health, Part 2

General Health, Infectious Diseases, Your Very Special Child
Image

For effective treatment of dysbiosis, it is crucial to begin with accurate diagnostics. In the first article, we discussed the basic concepts of dysbiosis, its impact on health, and potential causes. Many health conditions may present with similar symptoms but require different treatment approaches. As mentioned earlier, dysbiosis-related issues can be identified using a variety of diagnostic methods. The primary ones are stool analysis and breath tests. Stool analysis can detect the presence of pathogenic bacteria, viruses, and fungi, while breath tests effectively reveal carbohydrate fermentation disorders, which may indicate SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth).

Choosing a Laboratory

Selecting a reliable laboratory is the foundation of successful dysbiosis diagnostics. It’s essential that the lab provides complete and accurate data for creating a comprehensive, individualized treatment plan. A quality laboratory should meet high diagnostic standards and have a solid reputation. Examples include Doctors Data, which specializes in stool analysis, and SIBO Diagnostics, which offers breath tests for diagnosing SIBO.

Doctor’s Data

Doctor’s Data is known for its strict quality control and participation in numerous certification programs, including the College of American Pathologists (CAP) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These programs confirm the lab’s commitment to high diagnostic standards. As a result, the lab provides precise and reliable test results—crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning. One standout feature of Doctor’s Data is its personalized approach: the data they provide allows clinicians to create targeted and customized treatment strategies.

SIBO Diagnostics

SIBO Diagnostics offers high-level diagnostic services and comprehensive support for healthcare professionals. Through exclusive partnerships with leading SIBO experts in North America, the lab provides educational resources and assists practitioners in interpreting results and designing optimal treatment plans. Their unique diagnostic tests and consultations contribute to better outcomes and enhanced patient care.

GI 360 Stool Test Overview

GI360™ is an innovative and comprehensive stool test profile that combines multiplex PCR molecular technology with culture methods, MALDI-TOF identification, sensitive biochemical assays, and microscopy. This profile is designed to detect and assess pathogens, viruses, parasites, and bacteria that may contribute to acute or chronic gastrointestinal symptoms and conditions.

Additionally, the GI360™ test allows optional add-ons such as H. pylori antigen screening, assessment of intestinal permeability markers, and visual stool analysis for large parasitic infections (samples that block microscopy are typically removed before culture analysis). Testing for C. difficile may also be included.

Pre-Test Protocol for Accuracy

To optimize GI360™ stool test results, a pre-test protocol may be recommended. This includes taking a biofilm-disrupting agent for two weeks before the test. This preparation helps reveal more hidden pathogens and provides a more complete assessment of the gut microbiome. Patients are advised to follow this protocol under their healthcare provider’s guidance to ensure maximum test accuracy.

Microbiome Assessment:

Diversity and abundance — GI360™ is a DNA-based microbiome analysis tool that identifies and characterizes over 45 target analytes linked in scientific research to dysbiosis and other chronic conditions.

  • Balanced bacteria: Results may show zero to several dozen bacteria that are generally considered within normal range.
  • Dysbiotic bacteria and yeast: If bacterial counts exceed reference values and fall within the dysbiosis category, further attention is required. GI360™ then provides antimicrobial sensitivity testing to personalize the treatment plan.

Pathogen Detection

GI360™ includes a panel of 11 common pathogens that cause acute gastroenteritis. The test identifies viral, bacterial, and parasitic pathogens using real-time multiplex PCR. Although viruses are a leading cause of acute diarrhea, they are rarely tested. Detecting viral, bacterial, and parasitic pathogens helps improve treatment strategies and patient outcomes.

Parasitology

GI360™ uses two methods to analyze parasites:

  • PCR: This method is applicable for identifying parasites and pathogens in cases of acute gastroenteritis of unknown origin. PCR is effective even in complex cases.
  • Ova and Parasite (O&P) Exam: A traditional method in which the sample is microscopically examined for over 30 parasites. This approach remains a gold standard in parasitology and provides accurate data on parasite presence.

Other Markers

GI360™ also includes various marker analyses:

Additional Markers:

  • Hematologic markers: Red and white blood cells.
  • Digestive markers: Muscle fibers, plant fibers, Charcot-Leyden crystals.
  • Macroscopic characteristics: Color, consistency, mucus, and other visual traits of the sample.

Digestion / Absorption:

  • Elastase: Indicates the level of pancreatic enzyme activity.
  • Fat Stain: Assesses the presence of undigested fat.
  • Carbohydrates: Checks for unabsorbed carbohydrates in the sample.

Inflammation:

  • Lactoferrin: A protein linked to inflammatory processes.
  • Lysozyme: A marker of mucosal inflammation in the intestine.
  • Calprotectin: Indicates intestinal inflammation, including conditions such as IBD.

Immunology:

  • Secretory IgA (sIgA): Reflects immune activity in the gut.

Short Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs):

  • % Acetate, % Propionate, % Butyrate, % Valerate: Relative levels of key fatty acids important for gut health.
  • Butyrate (mg/mL): Absolute butyrate concentration.
  • Total SCFAs (mg/mL): Total short-chain fatty acids level.

Intestinal Health Markers:

  • pH: Acidity level in the intestine.
  • β-glucuronidase: An enzyme linked to microbial activity. Elevated levels may indicate dysbiosis and increased colorectal cancer risk due to toxin reactivation.
  • Occult Blood: Screens for hidden blood in the sample.

Culture

GI360™ incorporates culture testing, which remains the gold standard in microbiology:

  • Identification of unique organisms: Culture allows for the identification of over 300 yeast species, including 95 types of Candida.
  • Reference library: An ever-expanding MALDI-TOF database with over 1,500 bacterial and fungal species enables detection of new and rare organisms.

Personalized Treatment

GI360™ provides data that support a personalized treatment approach:

  • Individualized data: Detection of microbial imbalances and pathogens allows treatment to be tailored to each patient’s profile.
  • Targeted protocols: The report offers insights into both natural and pharmaceutical agents suitable for addressing identified pathogens.
  • Specific comments: GI360™ reports conclude with customized notes directly related to the patient’s findings, offering individualized explanations and treatment suggestions.

GI360™ integrates traditional and advanced technologies to generate a complete and precise gut microbiome profile, leading to improved diagnostics and treatment outcomes.

The lab provides a special kit for stool collection over a 3-day period. After collection, samples should be shipped to the lab using 2-day FedEx (prepaid by the lab). Results are uploaded to the ordering provider’s portal within 10 business days.

Lactulose Quintron Breath Test

SIBO Diagnostics offers the three-hour Lactulose Quintron Breath Test, the most widely used SIBO test globally. The test tracks changes in hydrogen and methane levels in exhaled air over time after ingesting lactulose. These changes help determine microbial activity in the small intestine and identify the type of SIBO (hydrogen-dominant, methane-dominant, or mixed).

The patented Quintron EasySampler kit provides simple and convenient breath sample collection with extended sample stability and no contamination. The test is performed at home for patient and clinic convenience. Detailed instructions are provided, including a link to an instructional website with video guides on preparation and sample collection. These videos are also available on the official site.

This method allows practitioners to identify small intestine microbiome imbalances and choose appropriate treatments.

Dysbiosis Treatment

Dysbiosis treatment plans are tailored individually based on GI360 stool test results. Often, separate treatment for SIBO is not needed if the stool test-based plan resolves the dysbiosis. The plan typically includes:

  • Antiparasitic and antibacterial agents — to combat infections.
  • Antifungal and antiviral agents — if related infections are identified.
  • Specialized probiotics and binders — selected based on test findings.
  • Biofilm disruptors — if biofilm presence is suspected.
  • Dietary adjustments — to support gut health.
  • Digestive enzymes — to improve digestion and nutrient absorption.
  • Additional nutrients — to correct vitamin and mineral deficiencies.

Treatment duration depends on case complexity and may range from several weeks to months.

Doctor’s Data Specializes in advanced functional testing for evaluating digestive health, metal toxicity, and more www.doctorsdata.com.

SIBO Diagnostics Provides reliable testing and support for diagnosing small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), along with expert consultation. sibodiagnostics.com

Conclusion

Accurate diagnosis is critical for effective dysbiosis treatment, using modern stool analysis and breath testing. Choosing reliable labs such as Doctors Data and SIBO Diagnostics ensures diagnostic accuracy and treatment success. Preparation protocols, including the use of biofilm disruptors before testing, improve test reliability. This comprehensive approach supports the development of personalized treatment plans, optimizing GI health and providing long-term results for patients.