PARASITE INVESTIGATION

The risk of parasitic infection is ever increasing. These infestations are mostly through food and water. Factors like frequent overseas travel, importation of vegetables and fruits, lack of a public health policy to screen food handlers for transmittable pathogens, outdoor and wilderness excursions, alternate lifestyles, agricultural pollution, immigration and pets at home contribute to the problem.

The scale of problem:

The World Health Organization studies indicate that about half a billion individuals are infected annually by Amoeba Histolytica and a similar number of people are infected by Giarardia and Cryptosporidium. Considering all parasites, more than 1/4 of the Earth’s population is infected at any one time.

Asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic or overt GI parasitic infections can affect and deter gastrointestinal function and if undetected, will lead to chronic illness.

Who should be checked:

1. Individuals with chronic and vague GI symptoms including frequent bloating, gas, cramping, and constipation
2. Frequent travel within Canada and/or overseas
3. Frequent eating outside the home
4. Food handlers and food preparers at restaurants, homes, schools - to protect others
5. Institutionalized individuals
6. Uniformed services
7. Dormitory Residents - common quarters
8. Homosexuals
9. Children that go to daycare centers

What is checked:

The test is a non-invasive screen of the gastrointestinal tract and its function. It includes at least 15-22 individual but related tests. Stool and saliva samples are submitted by the patient after home collection.
The test panel includes:

1. Pathogen screening for bacteria, fungi, yeast and various parasites.
2. Digestion related screens: enzyme levels and immunochemical markers for intolerance to common offending foods.
3. Intestinal function markers for irritation and inflammation and status of gut immunity and integrity.