Add-On: Escherichia coli EIA

This is a single-marker test measuring Escherichia coli. It is available only as an add-on to the GI Effects® profiles.

What is the Add-On: Escherichia coli By Genova Diagnostics?

This test is an add-on to the full GI Effects profile.  There are hundreds of known strains of E. coli, many of which are a normal part of the human microbiome.  [3.] 

This add-on test specifically looks for the presence of the enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli strain in the stool.  

Why is the Add-On: Escherichia coli Clinically Relevant?

Enterohemorrhagic E. Coli (EHEC) is a gram-negative bacteria, a type of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli.  It is typically caused by fecal contamination of beef, milk, or unpasteurized juice.  It can also be transmitted by direct contact with infected humans or animals.  

This strain may cause enterohemorrhagic colitis, which can progress to hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS); this progression is most commonly seen in children.  [2.]  

EHEC infection typically presents with visibly bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, and a white blood cell count above 10,000/microL, usually without fever, appearing around 3 to 4 days after exposure. 

Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is a severe complication of EHEC infection, characterized by anemia, kidney dysfunction, and low platelet count, especially affecting young children. HUS occurring after bloody diarrhea due to EHEC is termed D+ HUS, while HUS from other causes is known as D- HUS or atypical HUS. [2.]

Most people get better within 5–7 days. Some infections are very mild, but others are severe or even life-threatening.  [1.] 

Who Can Benefit From the Add-On: Escherichia coli by Genova Diagnostics?

The Add-On: Escherichia coli marker for the GI Effects profile by Genova Diagnostics can benefit different groups of people.

Individuals who are experiencing symptoms of E. coli infection: severe stomach cramps, diarrhea (often bloody), and vomiting. Low-grade fever may or may not be present. 

Anyone suspected of having an E. coli infection, particularly the very young or the elderly, who are most at risk of severe disease

Testing can help confirm the presence of E. coli in the stool, aiding in the diagnosis and appropriate management of the infection.

Collection and Shipping 

This test is an add-on, and it will be assessed in the sample provided by the patient for the full GI Effects profile.  Click here for Collection and Shipping Instructions.  

Additional Resources for Practitioners

Video: Interpreting the GI Effects Profile

Article: Using the GI Effects Test in Clinic

References

[1.] CDC. Questions and Answers. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Published December 1, 2014. https://www.cdc.gov/ecoli/general/index.html 

[2.] Fatima R, Aziz M. Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli. [Updated 2023 Jun 26]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519509/

[3.] Mueller M, Tainter CR. Escherichia coli Infection. [Updated 2023 Jul 13]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK564298/