Add-On: Clostridium difficile EIA

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

What is the Add-On: Clostridium difficile By Genova Diagnostics?

This test is an add-on to the full GI Effects profile.  This add-on test specifically looks for the presence of Clostridium difficile  in the stool.  

Why is the Add-On: Clostridium difficile Clinically Relevant?

Clostridium is a gram-positive, spore forming, anaerobic, toxin-producing bacteria.  [2.]  Its toxins are pro-inflammatory enterotoxins that cause cellular damage and damage to the gut lining.  [1.]

Clostridium difficile infections are often caused by prolonged antibiotic use and/or PPI use.  Additionally, people with a weakened immune system, the elderly, and those in long-term care or hospitalization are also at increased risk of a C. difficile infection.  [2.]

Symptoms of C. difficile infection range from being asymptomatic, to mild diarrhea to severe complications like toxic megacolon. Common symptoms include watery diarrhea with mucus or blood, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, low-grade fever, and abdominal pain. 

Severe cases may involve diarrhea, intense abdominal pain, bloating, dehydration leading to sepsis, toxic megacolon, and bowel perforation with peritonitis. Rarely, complications like protein-losing enteropathy and extra-colonic issues such as appendicitis or reactive arthritis may occur. 

Recurrent infections typically resolve with treatment, but symptoms may return if not adequately managed. [2.]

Who Can Benefit From the Add-On: Clostridium difficile by Genova Diagnostics?

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

Individuals who are experiencing symptoms of C. difficile infection: diarrhea (particularly persistent or severe), abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting

Individuals who have recently taken antibiotics

Individuals who have recently been hospitalized, especially if they develop symptoms suggestive of the infectio

Individuals working in long-term care facilities or in hospitals, even if asymptomatic: testing may help determine asymptomatic carriers 

Testing can help confirm the presence of C. difficile toxins 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.] Di Bella S, Ascenzi P, Siarakas S, Petrosillo N, di Masi A. Clostridium difficile Toxins A and B: Insights into Pathogenic Properties and Extraintestinal Effects. Toxins (Basel). 2016 May 3;8(5):134. doi: 10.3390/toxins8050134. PMID: 27153087; PMCID: PMC4885049.

[2.] Mada PK, Alam MU. Clostridioides difficile Infection. [Updated 2023 Jan 23]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK431054/