What is Adenovirus in Stool?
Adenovirus is a type of DNA virus that is non-enveloped and causes various respiratory tract illnesses and gastrointestinal disorders. The presence of adenovirus in stool samples indicates that the person is infected with certain serotypes of adenovirus. Adenoviruses are highly contagious and can be transmitted easily through fecal-oral routes, contaminated surfaces, and respiratory droplets.
Adenovirus in stool test is performed to detect the presence of adenovirus in stool samples to diagnose the cause of symptoms associated with gastrointestinal conditions as if left untreated may lead to severe dehydration.
How is the Test Performed?
Adenovirus in stool test is a simple and non-invasive test for the detection of adenovirus. Generally, the test requires no preparation and is straightforward although you must inform the doctor if you’re taking any medications.
Collection
- A special container is provided by the laboratory for the collection of stool samples.
- Make sure that the sample is not contaminated with urine, menstrual blood, pubic hair, or other possible contaminants that might influence the test results.
- If immediate delivery of the sample to the laboratory is not possible store the sample in a cool place like a refrigerator or on ice.
Laboratory Analysis
- Once the sample is received by the laboratory. The sample is analyzed using molecular techniques like ELISA, PCR, or viral culture for the detection of adenovirus DNA or antigen.
This test gives accurate and quick results for on-time diagnosis and treatment plans.
What are the symptoms that prompt this test?
Adenovirus in stool test is recommended for patients exhibiting symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders, and immunocompromised individuals who need immediate attention due to the contagious nature of the virus along with the possibility of dehydration in patients;
Symptoms in Children and Infants
Symptoms may start after 2 days to 2 weeks of exposure.
- Croupy cough
- Headache
- Lethargy
- Dry mouth
- Persistent watery diarrhea for 2-5 days
- Abdominal pain and cramps
Symptoms in Adults
Adults develop the symptoms for urinary infections after 2-14 days, whereas after 3-10 days for intestinal tract infection.
- Extreme diarrhea followed by fever
- Vomiting
- Blood or mucus in stool
- Discomfort in the abdomen
- Swollen glands
- Ear infection
What are Normal Ranges for This Test?
Adenovirus in stool test gives the result as positive or negative as it is a qualitative test. A negative result suggests that the virus is absent in the body whereas a positive test indicates the presence of adenovirus and needs further testing and evaluation to determine the severity of the test.
Adenovirus in stool test is conducted through immunochromatographic assay, multipathogen PCR test, ELISA, PCR and qPCR.
Always consult your healthcare provider for the evaluation of results and proper diagnosis and treatment.
What Happens if Test Results Show Abnormal Levels?
If test results show the presence of adenovirus it is an indication of ongoing or recent infection. Additional tests are required to get insights about the severity of infection;
Positive Adenovirus in stool
- Gastrointestinal disorder
The healthcare provider gives Hydration therapy for diarrhea-related dehydration, antiviral treatments, over-the-counter medication, and virus control by maintaining proper hygiene, disinfecting the surfaces, and practicing proper hygiene.
