Doctronic navigation menu Log In
Doctronic navigation menu
Contents
  • When to Seek Testing
  • Types of Tests
  • Interpreting Results

Decoding Diagnostics: How Is Travelers' Diarrhea Identified?

Decoding Diagnostics: How Is Travelers' Diarrhea Identified?

The Diagnostic Dilemma

Diagnosing travelers' diarrhea can be tricky, but knowing when to get tested can guide effective treatment.
Contents
  • When to Seek Testing
  • Types of Tests
  • Interpreting Results

When to Seek Testing

Most cases of travelers' diarrhea don't require lab tests, as they are self-diagnosed and self-limiting. However, testing is advised if you experience severe symptoms like bloody stools or high fever. Persistent or recurring symptoms may also warrant a visit to the doctor.

Types of Tests

Stool culture and molecular testing are common diagnostic tools. Stool cultures help identify bacterial causes, while multiplex molecular tests can detect multiple pathogens, including viruses like norovirus. These tests provide rapid results but can be costly.
Diagnostic tests for travelers' diarrhea include stool culture and molecular testing, which help identify bacterial and viral causes for effective treatment.

Interpreting Results

Diagnostic tests can be complex, often identifying multiple pathogens. For instance, a study revealed that multiplex panels detected more pathogens than conventional cultures. Proper interpretation by healthcare providers is crucial for effective treatment.

FAQs

When should you get tested?

Seek testing if you have severe symptoms like bloody stools.

What tests are available?

Stool culture and molecular tests are common options.

Are tests expensive?

Yes, especially multiplex molecular tests.

Do tests find multiple pathogens?

Yes, multiplex tests can detect multiple pathogens.

The Bottom Line

Understanding when and how to get tested for travelers' diarrhea can guide appropriate treatment and recovery.
Get started by talking to Doctronic about the best diagnostic approach for your symptoms!
Additional References
  1. Shane AL, Mody RK, Crump JA, et al. 2017 Infectious Diseases Society of America Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Infectious Diarrhea. Clin Infect Dis 2017; 65:e45.
  2. Lääveri T, Antikainen J, Mero S, et al. Bacterial, viral and parasitic pathogens analysed by qPCR: Findings from a prospective study of travellers' diarrhoea. Travel Med Infect Dis 2021; 40:101957.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.