A stool test is a laboratory analysis of a sample of stool that can detect a variety of diseases. Stool tests can detect infections, inflammation, malabsorption, the presence of foreign material, and the presence of abnormal cells.
Infections: Stool tests can detect bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections. These include bacterial infections such as Salmonella, Campylobacter, and Shigella, as well as viral infections such as rotavirus and norovirus. Parasitic infections such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium can also be detected.
Inflammation: Stool tests can detect inflammation of the intestines due to conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or other causes.
Malabsorption: Stool tests can be used to detect malabsorption, which is when the body is unable to absorb nutrients from food. This can be caused by celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, or other digestive disorders.
Foreign Material: Stool tests can also detect the presence of foreign material such as drugs, toxins, and heavy metals.
Abnormal Cells: Stool tests can detect the presence of abnormal cells, which can indicate the presence of cancer or precancerous conditions.
Overall, stool tests can detect a variety of diseases and conditions, including infections, inflammation, malabsorption, the presence of foreign material, and the presence of abnormal cells. This makes them a useful tool for diagnosing many different illnesses.