Add-On: Parasitology Module

The Parasitology Module includes microscopic fecal specimen examination for ova and parasites (O&P), as well as PCR detection of common protozoan parasites. This test can be added to the GI Effects® Fundamentals profiles.

What is the Add-On: Parasitology Module By Genova Diagnostics?

This test is an add-on to the GI Effects® Fundamentals profiles.  This combination test includes a macroscopic assessment and microscopic ova and parasite (O & P) stool test, as well as a PCR analysis to assess for the presence of the following specific organisms: 

Entamoeba histolytica

Blastocystis spp.

Dientamoeba fragilis

Cyclospora cayetanensis

Giardia

Cryptosporidium parvum/hominis

A microscopic O & P test is the gold standard for parasite assessment.  It involves examining a stool sample under a microscope to identify the presence of parasite eggs (ova) or the parasites themselves. 

PCR (polymerase chain reaction) analysis of stool for parasite testing offers greater sensitivity and specificity than microscopic tests alone.  [4.]  By testing for parasite DNA and DNA fragments, it allows for the detection of a wide range of parasitic infections with greater accuracy than traditional methods. This advanced technique enables early diagnosis and precise identification of parasites, facilitating appropriate treatment strategies for patients.  [3.] 

The combination of microscopic and PCR analysis for parasites increases diagnostic accuracy of parasitic infections.  [4.]  The Parasitology Module aims to detect various types of intestinal parasites, including single-celled organisms (protozoa), which may cause gastrointestinal infections. 

The addition of this test to the GI Effects Fundamentals provides an additional level of assessment for parasitic infections, reducing the risk of missed infections and aiding in appropriate treatment and management strategies.  [2., 3.]

How is the Add-On: Parasitology Module By Genova Diagnostics Clinically Relevant?

When incorporated into the GI Effects Fundamentals by Genova Diagnostics, the Parasitology Module enhances the diagnostic accuracy and enables tailored treatment strategies, optimizing patient care and outcomes in the management of GI disorders and parasitic infections.

Undiagnosed parasitic infections can have many symptoms, including: 

• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Nausea and vomiting
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue or weakness
• Visible worms or eggs in stool
• Itching or irritation around the anus or genital area
• Disturbed sleep due to itching (especially in cases of pinworms)
• Anemia (due to blood loss in cases of hookworm infection)
• Allergic reactions (such as skin rashes or respiratory symptoms) in response to certain parasites
• Digestive disturbances, including bloating and flatulence
• Appetite changes, either increased or decreased
• Fever or flu-like symptoms in severe cases of infection

It's important to note that symptoms can vary depending on the type of parasite and the severity of the infection. Additionally, some individuals may be asymptomatic carriers of certain parasites. 

Who Can Benefit From the Add-On: Parasitology Module By Genova Diagnostics?

This Add-On test may be beneficial for the following groups of people:  [1., 2.] 

Travelers to regions with poor sanitation or known endemic areas for parasitic infections.

Individuals experiencing persistent gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting.

People with a history of exposure to contaminated food, water, or soil.

Patients with compromised immune systems, including those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing immunosuppressive therapy.

Individuals with unexplained weight loss or nutritional deficiencies.

Healthcare workers or individuals in close contact with animals.

Those with a history of consuming raw or undercooked meats, fish, or shellfish.

Residents of or visitors to institutions such as nursing homes, daycare centers, or correctional facilities where outbreaks of parasitic infections are more common.

Individuals with a history of parasitic infections or a family history of parasitic diseases.

People with symptoms suggestive of specific parasitic infections, such as itching around the anus (suggestive of pinworm infection) or persistent skin rashes (suggestive of certain protozoan infections).

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.] Kasırga E. The importance of stool tests in diagnosis and follow-up of gastrointestinal disorders in children. Turk Pediatri Ars. 2019 Sep 25;54(3):141-148. doi: 10.14744/TurkPediatriArs.2018.00483. PMID: 31619925; PMCID: PMC6776453. 

[2.] Khan MQ, Gentile N, Zhou Y, Smith BA, Thomson RB, Yen EF. An audit of inpatient stool ova and parasite (O&P) testing in a multi-hospital health system. J Community Hosp Intern Med Perspect. 2020 Jun 14;10(3):204-209. doi: 10.1080/20009666.2020.1760422. PMID: 32850066; PMCID: PMC7426986.

[3.] Morgan UM, Pallant L, Dwyer BW, Forbes DA, Rich G, Thompson RC. Comparison of PCR and microscopy for detection of Cryptosporidium parvum in human fecal specimens: clinical trial. J Clin Microbiol. 1998 Apr;36(4):995-8. doi: 10.1128/JCM.36.4.995-998.1998. PMID: 9542924; PMCID: PMC104676. 

[4.] Sow D, Parola P, Sylla K, Ndiaye M, Delaunay P, Halfon P, Camiade S, Dieng T, Tine RCK, Faye B, Ndiaye JL, Dieng Y, Gaye O, Raoult D, Bittar F. Performance of Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction Assays for the Detection of 20 Gastrointestinal Parasites in Clinical Samples from Senegal. Am J Trop Med Hyg. 2017 Jul;97(1):173-182. doi: 10.4269/ajtmh.16-0781. PMID: 28719290; PMCID: PMC5508894.