It is in the digestive system, especially in the colon, that most of the bacteria that have been evolving with us for millennia reside. In healthy humans, microbial cells in the large intestine (microbiome) are more numerous than human cells in a ratio of ten to one. It is also in the digestive system that about 80% of our immune system is located.
Until recently, however, this abundant community of microbes associated with humans remained generally poorly studied, leaving their influence on human development, physiology, immunity and nutrition almost entirely unknown. Today it is known that the function and integrity of the microbiome is important for our health.
The complete fecal examination with parasitology is a noninvasive test that allows to objectively assess the status of bacteria, fungi and parasites that reside in the large intestine. In this test an evaluation of the digestive function is also carried out.  Synthetic and natural medicines that allow correction of the detected imbalances are tested.

• What itens are analysed?
  This test comprises many components:
  

  • Evaluation of beneficial and harmful intestinal flora;
  • Evaluation of the presence of fungi;
  • Evaluation of parasites;
  • Assessment of digestive function (levels of enzymes necessary for the digestion of food and degree of digestion of fats and proteins);
  • Evaluation of food absorption;
  • Inflammation of the bowel wall;
  • Markers of food allergies;
  • Markers of intestinal metabolic activity.
• What are the clinical indications for its performance?
  The test has been essentially used in a second line of evaluation when the classic tests do not give us an answer regarding the present symptoms.
• Advantages and limitations?
  The main advantage is that essentially with a single test we can evaluate many functions essential for the proper functioning of the digestive system. The fact that the lab work is carried out outside Portugal requires the delivery of the products for analysis on a specific schedule.
• Is any preparation needed?
  No special preparation is required. However the instructions have to be read carefully so that the stool collections carried out during two days run with the necessary rigor. Once you are in possession of the kit, I am available to give you a short explanation of the procedures.
• Do I need to stop my medication to take the exam?
  It is important not to take antibiotics, antifungal and probiotics for 7 days. Do not take aspirin or anti-inflammatory, mineral oil, pancreatic enzymes, and use suppositories for 3 days prior to collecting feces.
• How is the exam performed?
  The exam consists essentially of stool collection on two days.
• What happens after the exam?
  The products collected are sent by special courier, the result takes three weeks to return.
• What is the cost of examination?
  The price of the test is €370.00
• What agreements do you have?
  We have chosen not to have any agreements. After payment of the exam a receipt is always issued. You can then submit it along with your doctor’s request for reimbursement from your insurer.

Do not forget!

Specimen transportation is booked in advance, and should not be changed. A bit planning is fundamental.