Description
The Complete Digestive Stool Analysis (CDSA) is a functional test that provides an overview of the components of digestion, absorption, intestinal function and microbial flora, as well as identifying pathogenic bacteria, parasites and yeasts. The CDSA is a non-invasive test providing invaluable information for the patient and practitioner in terms of understanding the role of poor digestive function in disease states. Poor digestive function and imbalanced gut flora may play a crucial role in the underlying cause of a number of health conditions. Symptoms such as constipation, diarrhoea, flatulence, bloating, abdominal discomfort and bad breath are all indicative of poor gut function.
Which Level Do I Choose?
The following information differentiates CDSA Levels 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 to assist in choosing the most appropriate test. CDSA Level 1 CDSA Level 1 is a comprehensive assessment of the microbiological environment of the gut. It includes Macroscopy, Microscopy, Bacteriology, Mycology (yeasts) and Parasitology. This test reports on pathogenic and imbalanced colonising organisms, as well as identifying the levels of beneficial flora. Choose this test when you suspect a gut infection or want to confirm/exclude dysbiosis Turnaround time – seven (7) working days. CDSA Level 2 CDSA Level 2 comprises all components of the CDSA Level 1 and also incorporates important biochemical markers including pancreatic function, absorption of fats, carbohydates and protein, pH and Short Chain Fatty Acids. This test provides an excellent assessment of digestive function and is the appropriate choice for patients presenting with suboptimal gut function. Turnaround time – ten (10) working days. CDSA Level 3 CDSA Level 3 expands on the CDSA Level 2 with the addition of Sensitivity Testing. This means that when colonising bacteria or mycoses/yeasts are detected, they are tested against a panel of natural anti-microbial and prescription anti-fungal agents. Sensitivity testing identifies the most effective anti-microbial/anti-fungal treatment to use, which allows for a more accurate and cost effective treatment for your patient. Turnaround time – ten (10) working days. CDSA Level 4 CDSA Level 4 encompasses all CDSA markers and is the most comprehensive stool test. It includes all the benefits of a CDSA Level 3 and also a 3 Day Parasitology. This test is indicated when a comprehensive gut assessment and parasitology screen is required. Turnaround time – ten (10) working days. CDSA Level 5 CDSA Level 5 includes Microscopy, Bacteriology, Mycology and a 3 Day Parasitology. This test reports on pathogenic and imbalanced colonising organisms, as well as beneficial flora over three consecutive days. Use this test when you suspect gut infection, parasitic infection or dysbiosis. Turnaround time – ten (10) working days. 3 Day Parasitology For practitioners wishing to screen for parasites only, a 3 Day Parasitology test is available. The literature indicates that testing over 3 consecutive days increases the likelihood of detection rates to 95%.Symptoms often associated with parasitic infection include acute watery diarrhoea, nausea, abdominal pain and cramps, fatigue and weight loss. Parasites commonly detected include Blastocystis hominis, Dientamoeba fragilis, Giardia lamblia, Endomilax nana and Entamoeba histolytica. Any other parasites that are present will also be reported. Turnaround time – ten (10) working days. Specimen Requirements ¢ CDSA Levels 1-3 require one stool collection. ¢ CDSA Level 4 and Level 5 require stool collections on three consecutive days. ¢ The test kits provided contain everything required to complete this test. Children The CDSA Levels 1-5 are suitable for children Patient Preparation ¢ Patients must follow their usual diet prior to collecting a stool specimen ¢ The stool specimen must be collected in the morning, where possible Turnaround Time The standard turnaround time for this test is 7 – 10 working days from the date the patient’s specimen/s are received at our laboratory Further Reading
