For effective treatment of dysbiosis, it is crucial to start with an accurate diagnosis. In the first article, we explored the fundamental concepts of dysbiosis, its impact on health, and its underlying causes. Many conditions have similar symptoms but require different treatment approaches. As we mentioned earlier, issues related to dysbiosis can be identified using various diagnostic methods. The primary ones include stool analysis and breath tests. Stool analysis helps detect pathogenic bacteria, viruses, and fungi, while breath tests effectively identify carbohydrate processing disorders, which may indicate the presence of SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth).
Choosing a Laboratory
Choosing a high-quality laboratory is the foundation of successful dysbiosis diagnostics. It is essential that the laboratory provides comprehensive and accurate data to create a thorough and individualized treatment plan. The laboratory must meet high-quality standards and have a solid reputation. Laboratories such as Doctors Data, which specializes in stool analysis, and SIBO Diagnostics, which offers breath tests for diagnosing SIBO, meet these criteria.
Doctor’s Data
Doctor’s Data is renowned for its strict quality control and participation in numerous certification programs, including those conducted by the College of American Pathologists (CAP) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These programs confirm the laboratory’s commitment to high diagnostic standards. Such measures ensure accurate and reliable test results, which are crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment planning. A distinctive feature of Doctor’s Data is its personalized approach: the data they provide enables physicians to create targeted and individualized treatment plans.
SIBO Diagnostics
SIBO Diagnostics offers high-level diagnostic services and comprehensive support for specialists. Through exclusive collaboration with leading SIBO experts in North America, the laboratory provides educational support and assists physicians in interpreting test results and developing optimal treatment plans. The unique diagnostic tests and consultations offered by SIBO Diagnostics enhance treatment effectiveness and improve patient outcomes.
GI360™ Stool Analysis Overview
GI360™ is an innovative and comprehensive stool analysis profile that combines multiplex PCR molecular technology with cultivation 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 for optional H. pylori antigen screening, intestinal permeability marker assessment, and visual stool examination for large parasitic infections (those parts that block microscopic examination and are usually removed before culture analysis). It can also include testing for the presence of C. difficile.
Pre-Test Preparation Protocol for Enhanced Accuracy
For optimal results in the GI360™ stool analysis, a pre-test preparation protocol may be recommended, which involves using a biofilm-disrupting agent for two weeks prior to the test. This preparation helps uncover more bacteria and pathogens, providing a more comprehensive examination of the gastrointestinal microbiome. Patients are advised to follow this protocol under the guidance of their healthcare provider to maximize the test’s effectiveness.
Microbiome Assessment:
The diversity and abundance of the GI360™ provide a DNA-based microbiome analysis tool that identifies and characterizes over 45 target analytes, which, according to scientific research, may contribute to dysbiosis and other chronic conditions.
- Balanced Bacteria: Results can range from zero to several dozen bacteria, typically considered within the normal range.
- Dysbiosis Bacteria and Yeasts: If the number of bacteria exceeds reference values and falls into the category of dysbiosis, additional attention is required. In such cases, the GI360™ profile offers antimicrobial sensitivity testing to tailor treatment protocols.
Pathogen Detection
The GI360™ includes a panel of 11 common pathogens that cause acute gastroenteritis. This test identifies pathogenic viruses, bacteria, and parasites using real-time multiplex PCR. Viruses are a leading cause of acute diarrhea but are rarely tested. Detecting pathogenic bacteria, viruses, and parasites improves treatment strategies and outcomes for patients.
Parasitology:
GI360™ employs two methods for parasite analysis:
- PCR: This method is used for identifying parasites and pathogens in cases of acute gastroenteritis of unknown origin. PCR effectively identifies parasites, even in complex cases.
- Ova and Parasites Examination: A traditional method where the sample is examined under a microscope to detect more than 30 parasites. This method remains the standard in parasitology and provides accurate data on the presence of parasites.
Other Markers:
GI360™ also includes the analysis of various markers:
Additional Markers:
- Hematological Markers: Red and white blood cells.
- Digestive Markers: Muscle fibers, vegetable fibers, Charcot-Leyden crystals.
- Macroscopic Characteristics: Color, consistency, mucus, and other visual indicators of the sample.
Digestion / Absorption:
- Elastase: Indicates pancreatic enzyme levels.
- Fat Stain: Assesses the presence of undigested fat.
- Carbohydrates: Detects carbohydrates in the sample.
Inflammation:
- Lactoferrin: A protein associated with inflammatory processes.
- Lysozyme: Marker of intestinal mucosal inflammation.
- Calprotectin: Indicates intestinal inflammation, including inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD).
Immunology:
- Secretory IgA (sIgA): Reflects intestinal immune activity.
Short Chain Fatty Acids:
- % Acetate, % Propionate, % Butyrate, % Valerate: Percentages of various fatty acids essential for gut health.
- Butyrate (mg/mL): Key fatty acid for intestinal mucosal support.
- Total SCFAs (mg/mL): Total level of short-chain fatty acids.
Intestinal Health Markers:
- pH: Reflects the acidity level of the intestine.
- β-glucuronidase: An enzyme, linked to microbial activity in the gut. Elevated levels may indicate dysbiosis and an increased risk of colorectal cancer due to toxin reactivation.
- Occult Blood: Tests for hidden blood in the sample.
Cultivation:
GI360™ uses cultivation, which remains the gold standard in microbiology:
- Identification of Unique Organisms: Cultivation allows the identification of over 300 species of yeast, 95 of which belong to Candida. The continuously updated MALDI-TOF library, containing over 1,500 bacteria and fungi, enables the identification of new and rare microorganisms.
Personalized Treatment:
GI360™ provides data that facilitates a personalized approach to treatment:
- Individual Data: Detecting an imbalance of bacteria and pathogens allows treatment to be tailored to the unique characteristics of the patient.
- Personalized Treatment Plans: This data enables physicians to develop more targeted and effective treatment plans for each patient. The test provides information about natural and pharmaceutical agents that can be used to treat identified pathogens.
- Specific Comments: At the end of the GI360™ report, specific comments related directly to the patient’s results are provided, offering personalized explanations and recommendations.
GI360™ combines traditional and modern analysis methods to create a complete and accurate microbiome profile, leading to better diagnosis and treatment of diseases. The laboratory provides a special stool sample collection kit to be used over three days. After collection, samples must be sent to the laboratory via a two-day FedEx delivery service (shipping paid by the laboratory). The report is then uploaded to the portal of the specialist who ordered the test after 10 business days.
Lactulose Quintron Breath Test
SIBO Diagnostics offers the three-hour Lactulose Quintron Breath Test, which is the most widely used test for SIBO in the world. The test measures changes in hydrogen and methane levels in the breath after lactulose ingestion over a specified period. These changes help determine microbial activity in the small intestine and aid in diagnosing the type of SIBO (hydrogen, methane, or mixed).
The patented Quintron EasySampler kit provides an easy and convenient way to collect breath samples, ensuring long-term sample preservation without contamination. The test can be conducted at home for the convenience of patients and clinics. Detailed instructions for the test include preparation guidelines for patients. The instruction page links to a website with videos on preparation and sample collection, which are also available online.
This method allows physicians to identify disturbances in the small intestine’s microflora and prescribe appropriate treatment.
Treatment of Dysbiosis
The treatment plan for dysbiosis is developed individually based on the results of the GI360™ stool analysis. Often, separate treatment for SIBO is not required if the stool test-based plan addresses the issues of dysbiosis. The plan includes the following components:
- Antiparasitic and antibacterial agents — to combat infections.
- Antifungal and antiviral agents — when corresponding infections are detected.
- Specialized probiotics and adsorbents — selected based on diagnosed issues.
- Biofilm disruptors — if indications of their presence exist.
- Dietary adjustments — to support intestinal health.
- Enzymes — to improve digestion and nutrient absorption.
- Additional nutrients — to address deficiencies in vitamins and minerals.
The duration of treatment depends on the complexity of the case and can vary from a few weeks to several months.
Conclusion
For effective treatment of dysbiosis, it is critically important to accurately diagnose it using modern stool analysis and breath tests. Choosing reliable laboratories, such as Doctors Data and SIBO Diagnostics, ensures diagnostic accuracy and treatment efficacy. An important aspect is the preparation protocol, which includes the use of biofilm-disrupting agents before testing, enhancing their accuracy. Such a comprehensive approach allows for the development of personalized treatment plans, optimizing gastrointestinal health and ensuring long-term treatment outcomes for patients.
Doctor’s Data: Specializes in innovative specialized testing to assess various health aspects, including toxic metal burden, digestive function, and more. (doctorsdata.com)
SIBO Diagnostics: Provides reliable tests and support for diagnosing small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), along with consultations with leading experts in the field. (sibodiagnostics.com)