Stool analysis for dysbacteriosis: Why take it, what it shows and how to prepare

Stool analysis for dysbacteriosis is a diagnostic study that allows you to assess the composition of the intestinal microflora, detect an excess or deficiency of certain bacteria and determine the presence of pathogenic microorganisms. Disruption of the balance of intestinal microflora is often accompanied by symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, unstable stool, chronic fatigue, decreased immunity. Accurate detection of changes in the bacterial composition of the intestine allows the doctor to select an individual treatment.

What is dysbacteriosis?

Dysbacteriosis is not a disease, but a functional condition in which the balance between «good» and «bad» microorganisms in the intestines is disturbed. Beneficial bacteria, in particular bifidobacteria and lactobacilli, play a key role in the digestive processes, vitamin synthesis, protection against pathogens and the formation of immunity. When their number decreases and the number of conditionally pathogenic or pathogenic bacteria (for example, staphylococci, proteus, fungi of the genus Candida) increases, an imbalance occurs.

Gastroenterologist Maria Lysenko explains: "Most patients who present with digestive complaints actually have a microflora disorder. This does not always require antibiotics, but it always requires accurate diagnosis.".

When is the analysis prescribed?

Stool analysis for dysbacteriosis It is advisable to pass if:

• frequent diarrhea or constipation;

• bloating, flatulence;

• abdominal pain for no apparent reason;

• skin rash;

• decreased appetite;

• long-term use of antibiotics;

• chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;

• preparation before and after surgical interventions;

• immunodeficiency states.

Pediatrician Tetyana Golovko notes: "It is especially important to check the microflora in children who are often sick or have stool disorders after infections. In childhood, the restoration of microflora is slower, and timely correction helps to avoid complications.".

How is the research going?

A stool sample collected at home is delivered to the laboratory, where bacteriological culture is performed. After 5–7 days, the quantitative ratio of bacteria, the sensitivity of microorganisms to antibacterial drugs, and the presence of fungal flora are determined.

Preparing for the analysis:

• Stop taking 3 days before sample collection probiotics, sorbents and laxatives (as agreed with the doctor);

• exclude rectal suppositories, enemas;

• collect the material in a special sterile container;

• Do not allow urine or water to enter the sample;

• deliver the sample to the laboratory within 2 hours or store in the refrigerator for no more than 4–6 hours.

What does the result show?

The results form lists the microorganisms with their number (in CFU/g). The doctor assesses whether there are any deviations from the norm:

• reduced number of bifidobacteria or lactobacteria;

• the presence or excess of E. coli with pathological properties;

• growth of opportunistic flora (proteus, clostridia, staphylococci);

• detection of fungi (Candida);

• sensitivity of flora to antibiotics and bacteriophages.

«We don’t just look at what bacteria are in the intestines,» says microbiologist Andriy Pavlyuk. “It’s important for us to understand whether there is a microbiological shift and whether it corresponds to the patient’s clinical picture. Only then is it appropriate to start treatment.”

How is the microflora corrected?

Based on the results, the following are assigned:

• probiotics - preparations with live cultures of beneficial bacteria;

• prebiotics — substances that stimulate the growth of your own microflora;

• symbiotics — a combination of probiotics and prebiotics;

• antifungal agents - if candidiasis is detected;

• Nutrition correction - a diet that excludes sugar, alcohol, and excess protein.

In some cases, the doctor may also prescribe enteric antiseptics or bacteriophages — drugs that destroy certain pathogenic bacteria without harming beneficial flora.

The health of the gastrointestinal tract depends not only on nutrition, but also on the microbial environment inside us. Violations of the microflora are a signal for examination, and a stool analysis for dysbacteriosis is the first step towards balance.