How to properly take a stool test for dysbacteriosis? How to determine intestinal dysbiosis in an adult and what tests need to be taken. What is included in a stool test for dysbiosis.

It is carried out to assess the state of the intestinal microflora and identify pathological bacteria. Diagnostics are prescribed to identify violations of intestinal functionality, manifested in chronic digestive disorders. Dysbacteriosis is accompanied by a disturbance in the microbial balance of the intestine, so the study of microflora is necessary for a relevant assessment of the condition of the intestine. In a normal state, microflora bacteria are in a symbiotic relationship and ensure full functionality of the intestines.

If pathogenic bacteria predominate, stool disorder begins to develop, and the body does not absorb everything useful material, which are necessary for its full operation, then it’s worth it. Difficulties in diagnosing flora imbalance are due to the fact that the symptoms of this pathological condition are similar to any signs of gastrointestinal disorders. The main indication for testing for dysbiosis is long-term consumption of antibiotics, which destroy not only pathogenic, but also beneficial microflora. To assess the state of the microflora, a stool sample is used, which is examined by a specialist and compared with indicators that are considered normal. The test results for an adult and a child are not identical, so a specialist should decipher the tests.

Normally, the intestinal microflora has a constant composition. The nature of dysbacteriosis is physiological and psychomatic in nature. The main reasons for the development of dysbiosis in adults and children are:

• chronic intestinal diseases;
• infectious and inflammatory processes;
• long-term use of antibiotics;
• poor nutrition;
• immune system disorders;
• psychological stress.

Causes of dysbiosis in adults and children

For children, the development of flora imbalance is caused by poor personal hygiene due to helminthiasis or intestinal infections. Sometimes bacteriosis can be endogenous and exogenous, so dysbacteriosis is often found in infants.

Also, dysbiosis in adults and children can occur against the background of metabolic disorders or sudden changes in diet.

Symptoms of dysbiosis in adults and children

The manifestation of flora imbalance is ambiguous, so it can easily be confused with any other intestinal disease. A stool test for dysbacteriosis is done in the presence of symptoms:

• chronic diarrhea and constipation;
• bloating and flatulence;
• rumbling in the intestines;
• reducing the protective functions of the immune system;
• lack of appetite;
• malabsorption of nutrients.

Bloating is one of the symptoms of dysbiosis

Indications for the study for adults and children are the need to establish the cause of stool disorder, bloating and pain in the epigastric region. Dysbacteriosis in a child is accompanied by an allergic reaction and redness of the skin. In children, symptoms of dysbacteriosis can manifest themselves as helminthiasis, so it is necessary to examine the child’s stool culture to confirm an accurate diagnosis. It is necessary for a child to have a stool test for dysbacteriosis to monitor the state of the microflora when taking medications.

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How to get tested for dysbacteriosis?

To diagnose dysbiosis, the patient must undergo a stool culture. As a rule, the microflora in small intestine not amenable pathological changes, and the composition of bacteria remains balanced. The microflora of the large intestine is most susceptible to pathological changes, so analyzing stool for dysbacteriosis is the most effective method diagnosis of the disease. For the results of the study to be accurate, it is important to perform a stool culture correctly. Diagnostic indicators depend on the conditions of stool collection, so when analyzing a sample, you need to take into account several factors that may distort the results:

• Absence of mucosal microflora in the samples. Mucosal microflora are bacteria that are found in the intestinal mucosa. When analyzing stool for dysbacteriosis, only cavity flora is present in cultures, which makes the results inaccurate.
• Contact of the sample with air. When stool is exposed to air, some of the bacteria die, so it is important to reduce the time the sample is exposed to air to a minimum.
• Analysis time. It is important to deliver the sample to the laboratory immediately after defecation so that the flora bacteria are not killed.

Stool culture is necessary to diagnose dysbiosis

To get the most accurate results from the test, it is important to collect the sample correctly. A stool test for dysbacteriosis is done for a child in the same way as for an adult. In order for the results of a child and an adult to be correct, the rules for collecting crops must be followed:

1. The sample must be voluntary, without stimulating the process of defecation with drugs or an enema.
2. The sample container must be sterile. Special containers for laboratory tests can be purchased at the pharmacy. To collect a sample from a child, you need to use a special stick, which is included in the container set.
3. Before collecting the analysis, it is necessary to empty bladder so that the urethra does not get into the sample. The process of defecation itself must be carried out in a clean container, previously scalded with boiling water.
4. The analysis should be collected immediately after bowel movement. For research, 10-15 grams of intestinal contents are enough, which are placed in a container and tightly closed.
5. The sample must be submitted to the laboratory within an hour after defecation. The longer it sits outdoors, the less bacteria it will retain. The anaerobic nature of the flora affects the result.
6. Before taking the test, you need to stop taking medicines in particular those containing bifidobacteria. If you are taking antibiotics, stool analysis should be performed 7-10 days after the end of therapy.

What is the easiest way to remove waste and toxins from the body?

Before analyzing stool for dysbacteriosis, you must adhere to a three-day diet. It is necessary to exclude foods that promote fermentation of flora in the intestines. Before submitting samples for analysis for dysbacteriosis, it is important to thoroughly wash the perineum and anus.

How long does the analysis take?

To receive the results of a stool test for dysbacteriosis, you need to wait from 3 to 7 days. This is due to the fact that in government institutions laboratories are overloaded with samples and are tested on a first-come, first-served basis.

As a rule, diagnostics in public clinics are free of charge, except for the cost of the sample container. In private diagnostic centers, research is carried out on a paid basis.

Deciphering tests for dysbacteriosis

The interpretation of stool analysis for dysbacteriosis is carried out by an infectious disease specialist, who assesses how many pathogenic and beneficial bacteria are included in the microflora and compares the result with normal values. Research in laboratory conditions carried out by placing a sample in a nutrient medium. Within 3-4 days, the bacteria multiply, and the result of the increase in colonies shows their number in 1 gram of sample. The unit used for dysbiosis testing is CFU/g. CFU/g shows the colon-forming units present in 1 gram of feces. Based on the results of laboratory research, the specialist compares the results for all microorganisms that should normally be contained in the microflora.

An example of an analysis for dysbacteriosis

Normally, an adult’s microflora should contain:

• pathogenic bacteria: pathogens of salmonellosis, dysentery, intestinal infections – 0;
• E. coli: 10 6 – 10 8;
• E. coli with low enzyme activity: 10 7 – 10 8;
• hemolytic Escherichia coli: 0;
• lactose-negative enterobacteria: 10 4;
• lactobacilli: 10 6;
• bifidobacteria: 10 8;
• enterococci: 10 7 – 10 9;
• bacteroids: 10 6 – 10 8;
• yeast-like fungi (candida): 10 3;
• staphylococci: 10 2 – 10 5;
• pathogenic staphylococci: 10 2;
• non-fermenting bacteria: 10 2 – 10 5;
• opportunistic bacteria: 10 3.

How salts and toxins are removed

The indicators are arbitrary and largely depend on the age of the patient. The results of analysis for dysbacteriosis in children differ from the results in adults. Bacteriological analysis is considered quite informative, but to obtain the most accurate results, a biochemical analysis should be done.

Pathogenic enterobacteria Usually this indicator comes first on the list. These microorganisms include bacteria that cause acute intestinal infections (dysentery, typhoid fever). The detection of such microorganisms is an indicator of a serious infectious disease.

Bifidobacteria These are the main representatives of normal intestinal microflora. They perform the important work of breaking down, digesting and absorbing various food components, synthesizing vitamins, and also facilitating their absorption. With the participation of bifidobacteria, iron, calcium and other important microelements are absorbed in the intestine; bifidobacteria stimulate the motility of the intestinal wall and promote normal stool, and they also neutralize toxic substances. The analysis form indicates the titer of bifidobacteria. It should be at least 107-109. A significant decrease in the number of bifidobacteria is a sign of severe dysbacteriosis.

Lactobacilli provide antiallergic protection, promote normal bowel movements, and produce an enzyme that breaks down milk sugar (lactose). In the analysis, their number should be no less than 106-107. Lactobacilli deficiency can lead to the development of allergic diseases, constipation, and lactase deficiency.

Escherichia coli With normal enzymatic activity (Escherichia).
The third representative of normal microflora. Its role is very important: this microbe prevents foreign “pests” from colonizing the intestinal wall. It should be noted that until 6-8 months of a baby’s life, the role of E. coli is small, and its amount can range from 100 million/g to 2-3 billion/g. Closer to one year (and at an older age), the total amount of E. coli should be at least 300-400 million/g (107-108). A decrease may be a sign of the presence of various worms in the intestines.

Escherichia coli with reduced enzymatic activity. This is an inferior E. coli, it does not pose any harm, but at the same time it does not perform its beneficial functions. The presence of this indicator in the analysis is a sign of incipient dysbiosis.

All other microflora indicators are opportunistic flora. The very term “opportunistic” indicates the essence of the ethics of organisms. They become pathogenic(disrupting normal bowel functions) under certain conditions: an increase in their number, with the ineffectiveness of protective mechanisms or decreased immunity. Opportunistic flora, competing with beneficial bacteria, colonizes the intestines and causes disruption of the entire gastrointestinal tract.

Coccal forms in the total amount of microbes. The most harmless representatives of opportunistic flora are enterococci. Their number up to 25% does not pose a health threat small child. In rare cases, an increase in the number of enterococci is main reason dysfunction associated with dysbacteriosis.

Staphylococcus epidermidis(S. eridermidis, S. saprophyticus). These types of staphylococci can cause problems, but up to 25% is acceptable.

Staphylococcus aureus(S. aureus). One of the most unpleasant representatives of opportunistic flora.

Even small amounts of it cause pronounced clinical manifestations, especially in infants. Therefore, usually the standards given in the form indicate that it should not be (in fact, an indicator not exceeding 103 is acceptable). Problems from Staphylococcus aureus directly depend on the state of normal flora: the more bifidobacteria; lactobacilli and normal E. coli, the less harm from staphylococcus. Its presence in the intestines can lead to allergic reactions, pustular skin rashes, and intestinal dysfunction.
Staphylococci are common germs environment, in particular, they live in large quantities on the skin and mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract. They can reach the baby through breast milk. Weak children (premature babies, caesareans, artificial babies) are most susceptible to infection with staphylococci. Staphylococci manifest themselves when the immune system is weakened.

Hemolyzing Escherichia coli Normally - absent. May cause allergic and intestinal problems in weakened children.

Klebsiella, Protea Their number should not exceed 103-105. If the indicator is more than 106, then problems similar to those from Staphylococcus aureus arise. Constipation is most often associated with the presence of Proteus, and the presence of Klebsiella leads to the development of allergies and lactase deficiency.

Hafnia, Serration, Enterobacter, Citrobacter Usually in quantities of 103-106 they do not cause problems.

Fungi of the genus Candida The presence of up to 104 is acceptable. An increase may occur after the use of antibiotics.

Clostridia The permissible amount is up to 107. Stool liquefaction and diarrhea rarely cause problems. Their number depends on the function of local intestinal immunity.

Dysbacteriosis is a violation of not just the quantitative content of microorganisms in the intestines, but also the proportional ratio. The correct balance ensures the necessary digestion process and helps enzyme systems.

Age characteristics nutrition are accompanied by changes in requirements for. Therefore, what is optimal for an infant is considered a violation for an adult and vice versa.

Feces for dysbacteriosis are a complex analysis. It requires compliance:

• preliminary preparation;
• rules for collecting stool;
• isolation of each group of microorganisms;
• differentiation with pathological flora.

Some of the research requires biochemical methods; in addition, if necessary, bacteriological culture for dysbacteriosis is done on special nutrient media. Therefore, stool testing for dysbacteriosis is carried out by experienced laboratory assistants with special training.

A little about intestinal microorganisms

More than 500 species of microorganisms live in the human intestine. Their tasks:

• help in breaking down substances ingested with food to a state that allows free passage through the wall into the bloodstream;
• remove toxins and gases that arise during the digestion process and prevent rotting;
• speed up the elimination of unnecessary harmful substances;
• produce the enzymes the body lacks for vital functions;
• synthesize essential vitamins;
• ensuring participation in the synthesis of components for immunity.

It has been proven that bifidobacteria are capable of secreting specific substances with anticancer effects.

All microorganisms are divided:

• for useful ones - they perform the above functions, maintain health (bifidobacteria - 95% of the total composition, lactobacilli up to 5%, Escherichia);
• conditionally pathogenic - they become pathogenic in the presence of the necessary conditions (changes in the acid-base balance of the environment, a decrease in immunity due to a long or severe illness), staphylococci, enterococci, clostridia, fungi of the genus Candida can become “traitor” bacteria;
• harmful or pathogenic - when they enter the body, they cause intestinal disease (salmonella, shigella).

Helicobacter is localized in the area of ​​the pylorus of the stomach. They are one of the important causes of gastritis, peptic ulcer and cancer. They may be isolated from the saliva and feces of an infected person. Found in 2/3 of the population.

Helicobacter is considered so far the only microorganism that survives in conditions of acidic gastric juice

Decoding a stool test for dysbacteriosis provides information about the quantitative and qualitative composition of the microflora and warns of dangerous deviations. According to the method of obtaining energy, microorganisms are divided:

• aerobic - viable only in the presence of oxygen (enterobacteria, lactobacilli, streptococci, staphylococci, fungi);
• anaerobic - develop without access to oxygen, are resistant (bifidobacteria, enterococci, clostridia).

Normally, the human body is protected from the spread of bacterial flora and fungi from the intestines to the stomach and other parts of the digestive tract. The obstacles are:

• hydrochloric acid of gastric juice, which destroys certain types of microorganisms;
• the presence of an ileocecal valve at the border between the ileum (the last in the small intestine) and the cecum (the initial part of the large intestine);
• a smooth muscle system that regulates peristaltic wave-like movements to push contents in one direction - from the small to the large intestine.

The ileocecal valve prevents the entry of stool with microorganisms from the bottom up

This is what happens in healthy person. Analysis of stool for dysbacteriosis may show a violation of defense mechanisms.

When is it necessary to take a stool test for dysbacteriosis?

Dysbacteriosis is not a disease, but a consequence of some disease. Usually they lead to it:

• chronic pathology of the digestive system;
• result inflammatory processes in the intestines with enterocolitis of various etiologies;
• use of high doses and long courses of antibiotics.

Changes in health status can be caused by a decrease in the proportion of beneficial microorganisms and an increase in the proliferation of opportunistic pathogens and pests. There are no specific symptoms. But, given the failure in the functioning of the patient’s intestines, one should expect:

• stool disorders (alternating diarrhea and constipation);
• bloating (flatulence) due to increased fermentation processes in the intestines;
• attacks of colic;
• the appearance of undigested dietary fiber residues, mucus, blood in the feces;
• decreased appetite, insufficient weight gain in children;
• common allergic reactions;
• permanent plaque on the tongue, teeth, bad breath;
• bleeding gums;
• increased hair loss, brittle nails;
• areas of dryness and flaking on the skin;
• signs of decreased immunity, which can be judged by frequent colds and difficulties with treatment.

Patients are prescribed the necessary examination for diagnosis. To find out the role of disturbed intestinal flora, the doctor will prescribe an analysis for intestinal dysbiosis. The study is indicated for patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiation therapy to select supportive treatment.

How to get tested for intestinal dysbiosis?

To obtain reliable results, it is not enough to have qualified specialists and a well-equipped laboratory nearby. It is necessary to comply with the requirements for preparation for analysis and correctly collect feces.

The analysis for dysbacteriosis can be assessed as reliable if in the previous three days any foods that promote fermentation processes were excluded from the diet. These include:

• alcohol;
• beet;
• meat and fish dishes.

Three days before the test, stop using such medicines, How:

• antibiotics;
• laxatives of any kind (including rectal suppositories, castor and petroleum jelly).

Wash the perineum and anus area well with soap before defecation. Wait for spontaneous bowel movement to collect material, do not use laxatives. This requirement is difficult for people with constant constipation. Collect stool in a sterile container, without urine. Close the sample tightly with a lid.

If you are not sure how well you can process dishes at home, it is recommended to buy a special jar at the pharmacy

In the presence of bloody discharge or mucus impurities, they must be included in the collected material. The child should be seated on a potty, previously well washed and rinsed with boiling water.

To conduct research, about 10 g of feces is enough; this is equal to a teaspoon in volume. On the lid of the vessel you should indicate the initials and surname of the patient; for a child, the date of birth, time and date when the test is taken.

The ideal way to complete the test for dysbacteriosis is to quickly deliver the container to the laboratory (no later than 40 minutes). Let's say two hours. Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four hours, but not in the freezer. The longer the delay, the more anaerobic microorganisms will die from contact with the air. And this distorts the results obtained.

What methods are used to detect dysbacteriosis?

The doctor suggests passing stool first to general analysis, which is called coproscopy or scatology. It is carried out by microscopying a drop of feces diluted with distilled water.

There is no exact count of the number of bacteria. In the results, it is important for the doctor to register disturbances in the digestive process. In order to clarify the cause, biochemical or bacteriological tests are prescribed. additional research.

Biochemical method

Biochemical analysis stool test for dysbacteriosis allows you to get results in an hour. The method is based on the ability of bacteria to secrete fatty acids. By analyzing the type of acidic content, microorganisms are distinguished and localization in the intestine is determined.

The advantages of the method are:

• comparative speed;
• the possibility of extending the delivery time to the laboratory to a day;
• safety of the material when frozen in the refrigerator;
• accuracy of information.

For correct collection, in contrast to the scheme already given, it is necessary:

• provide for a period after antibiotic therapy of at least two weeks;
• women should refrain from taking the test if their periods have not completely ended;
• pick up pieces of feces from different parts.

• acetic acid 5.35–6.41;
• propylene 1.63–1.95;
• oil 1.6–1.9.

Based on the concentration of fatty acids, it can be concluded that possible composition microorganisms in the intestines.

Bacteriological culture method

Bacteriological culture of stool for dysbacteriosis is a more labor-intensive research method. The analysis should be carried out as soon as possible after defecation.

Stool is inoculated onto plates containing medium containing a growth catalyst.

Bacteria multiply within 4–5 days. How much dysbacteriosis analysis is done determines the time required for the growth process. They are significantly larger than biochemical research, because it is required not only to calculate a quantitative indicator, but also to identify microorganisms by their properties. Results are reported in CFU/g (colony forming units).

The normal distribution of microorganisms should correspond to the following scheme:

• bifidobacteria 10 8 –10 10;
• lactobacilli and Escherichia 10 6 –10 9;
• streptococci 10 5 –10 7;
• non-hemolytic staphylococci 10 4 –10 5;
• clostridia 10 3 –10 5;
• conditionally pathogenic enterobacteria 10 3 –10 4 ;
• hemolytic staphylococci less than 10 3 CFU/g.

The number of bacteria in children under one year of age breastfeeding different from adults:

• bifidobacteria make up 10 10 –10 11;
• lactobacilli 10 6 –10 7 .

Based on the disturbed ratio of microorganisms, a conclusion is drawn about intestinal dysbiosis.

The disadvantages of the method are:

• significant distortion of results depending on the delay in delivery of material;
• lack of accounting for mucosal bacteria found in the colon;
• death of anaerobic microorganisms from contact with oxygen.

The conclusion indicates the degree of dysbacteriosis

What does a stool test for dysbacteriosis show?

Based on the results of all studies, the analysis for dysbacteriosis in adults is deciphered. It takes into account the isolated microorganisms and their quantity:

The results of the analysis must be treated carefully both in terms of preventing the development of the disease in the future and when choosing the optimal treatment.

In a child’s body, a tendency is immediately revealed that confirms the immaturity of organs. digestive system. At the same time, this type of analysis confirms the existing imbalance in the intestinal microflora. Most often, with dysbacteriosis in infants or newborns, there is a risk of having any diseases, as a result of which a malfunction occurred in the body. In most cases, dysbiosis does not have pronounced symptoms and is usually similar to any other disease of the digestive tract. In this regard, it becomes quite difficult to determine and identify dysbiosis in the child’s body. Therefore, submitting feces for analysis is one of the most reliable and accurate laboratory methods that can confirm this diagnosis.

When should you get tested for dysbacteriosis?

Sometimes the results of an analysis for the presence of dysbiosis in a child may contain a lot of information that is unclear to ordinary parents. In order to shed light on the contents of such analyses, in this article we will try to study the entire range of information provided during the tests, as well as decipher its contents. Children need to take this type of test if the child has:

• Diseases of the digestive organs;
• Increased flatulence;
• Intolerance to certain types of food;
• Pain in the abdominal area;
• Antibiotic therapy.

All of the above pathologies are a prerequisite for testing for dysbacteriosis in the child’s body. In addition, this type of analysis must be done on a newborn if he is included in the category of children with the development of various intestinal pathologies. For children susceptible to various diseases, testing for dysbacteriosis is also important.

What is the purpose of testing for dysbacteriosis?

Analysis of stool for the presence of dysbiosis in the child’s body is carried out in order to refute or confirm the corresponding diagnosis. At the same time, by taking this test, you can identify the causes of discomfort in the baby’s body. Based on the data from this analysis, the attending physician makes a specific diagnosis and prescribes appropriate treatment. As a result, the baby feels much better, and the parents are happy about his recovery. By analyzing a child’s stool to confirm or refute the dysbiosis developing in the body, doctors accurately and practically without errors study the composition of its microflora and determine the concentrations of the following groups of microorganisms:

1. which include microorganisms that improve the processes of digestion and absorption of nutrients for the baby;
2. Opportunistic microorganisms contained in the baby’s intestines that can worsen the baby’s health. Typically, this group of microorganisms can be harmful to a child if the number of such bacteria exceeds the number of beneficial ones;
3. Pathogenic bacteria that should not be contained in the microflora of a healthy baby at all.

Composition of a child's intestinal microflora

When examining stool for dysbacteriosis, specialists from medical institutions study in detail the composition of the resulting biomaterial. The essence of this analysis is to identify the ratio of the number of beneficial bacterial microorganisms to the number of opportunistic microorganisms, also present in the child’s body. The category of beneficial microorganisms that inhabit the child’s intestines includes: E. coli, lactobacilli, and also. All these types of microorganisms have a positive effect on the health and condition of the child’s body.

Scientists include the group of opportunistic microorganisms: fungi, clostridia, Klebsiella, and enterobacteria. Their activity can cause some discomfort to a growing child’s body and cause the child to cry. In a child’s body, each of the groups of bacterial microorganisms represented plays its role. Thus, some of the bacteria described above provide the baby with smooth digestion, while others, on the contrary, cause the development of various pathologies in the child.

The presence of pathogenic enterobacteria in a child’s stool indicates the presence of some kind of disease, since normally this category of microorganisms should not be present in the stool of healthy children. In addition, microorganisms of the genus or Shigella found in the feces of a child indicate the development of a rather complex intestinal disease in the child’s body, so their presence is extremely undesirable in the child’s body.

Intestinal microflora may contain microorganisms of the genus Salmonella and Shigella, as well as harmful fungal bodies belonging to the genus Candida. Fungal organisms belonging to the genus Candida can cause some discomfort to the baby. With an increased content of these fungi in the intestines, superficial damage to the skin in the area may begin. anus. And if these fungi actively begin to multiply and the number of beneficial microorganisms significantly decreases, the child may develop thrush or candidiasis.

Staphylococcus aureus should also not be contained in the stool of a child, especially one in infancy. The presence of staphylococcus in the feces, even in small quantities, can cause a child to develop various clinical manifestations. These include: pustules on the skin, and intestinal disorders. Staphylococcus can easily enter a child's body through mother's milk. Children with weak immune systems are most susceptible to infection. In addition to staphylococcus, hemolyzing Escherichia coli can also cause harm to a child’s body. Just like staphylococcus, it is not favorable for the development of beneficial microflora in a child’s body. Pathogenic microorganisms belonging to the genus Clostridia cause diarrhea in children.

The conditionally pathogenic part of microorganisms causes discomfort to the baby only when his immune system is weakened. If this category of microorganisms actively multiplies and begins to prevail over beneficial bacteria, the baby may develop dysbiosis.

Beneficial bacteria in the baby's intestines are bifidobacteria. Thanks to their presence in the child’s body, many important processes for his body are carried out. These include:

1. Stimulation of intestinal motility;
2. Participation in the breakdown of food;
3. Normalizes the process of bowel movement;
4. Promote the absorption of vitamins;
5. Provide digestion of food;
6. Helps ensure the process of food absorption;
7. Promote the absorption of essential microelements;
8. Capable of neutralizing many toxic substances.

Is not full list the benefits and advantages of bifidobacteria, which are necessary for the growth and development of the child’s body. If there are very few bifidobacteria in the intestines, this serves as a signal for the development of dysbiosis in the child. They play a major role in the intestinal microflora. They help maintain the body's defense systems against the penetration of various types of allergens. Thanks to lactobacilli, the body synthesizes lactase and lactic acid, which are simply indispensable for ensuring normal intestinal function. If these lactobacilli die, the child may develop allergies, constipation and lactase deficiency. This is especially undesirable for children under the age of the first year of life.

For the microflora of a child’s body, it is important to have activities that are necessary for the healthy growth and development of the body. Thanks to microorganisms of this group, children do not have a wide distribution of pathogenic bacteria throughout the body, and oxygen, which is dangerous for the life of lactobacilli and bifidobacteria, is removed. When the amount of E. coli in the intestinal microflora decreases, helminthic infestation may occur in a child’s body.

Dysbacteriosis in a child's body is accompanied by regurgitation, diarrhea or constipation, various skin reactions, pain in the abdominal cavity, as well as stomach bloating. If your baby suffers from abdominal pain or colic, you should consult a doctor. The reason for visiting the doctor is also a disorder of the baby's stool accompanied by the baby's anxiety. The cause of all these troubles for the child’s body may be. It can only be detected by submitting the child’s stool for analysis. With the help of this analysis, the doctor will be able not only to find the cause of dysbiosis, but also to provide the baby with the necessary help.

Analysis transcript

This analysis is carried out over seven days. It is during this period of time that all data on the composition of the microflora of the baby’s feces becomes ready. After receiving the biomaterial, laboratory specialists place it in a special container with a nutrient medium, in which all microorganisms found in the feces germinate. After some time, laboratory staff count germinated bacterial spores per gram of feces and study them in detail using a microscope. Then all data on the number of germinated microorganisms is entered into a special form. The number of germinated bacteria is documented using colony-forming units, based on one gram of the biomaterial under study (COG/g).

To analyze stool, the biochemical method is used, since it is more accurate and requires much less time to complete. A gastroenterologist deciphers the results of the analysis. In his work, he is guided by the norms of age indicators for the child’s body.
Submitting biomaterial for analysis in order to identify a child is a necessary condition for preventing the spread of various pathologies throughout the child’s body. Usually, on the form with the result of the analysis of the child’s feces, there are up to eleven indicators that indicate the presence of certain microorganisms in the child’s intestinal microflora and their number. The results of the analysis contain the following indicators:

The reasons leading to a decrease in the number of E. coli are:

• Improper diet and diet, oversaturated with protein, fatty or carbohydrate foods, as well as artificial feeding;
• The development of various intestinal infections in the body.

The number of pathogenic enterobacteria that cause development in a child various diseases, should be minimal or practically absent. The presence of a large number of them in the feces of a child indicates the development of intestinal infections in his body.

Based on these indicators, you can compare the data of your analyzes and independently judge the degree of development of dysbiosis in the child’s body.

How to prepare a child for analysis?

To obtain the most accurate data on the state of the microflora of the child’s body, you should prepare a little before taking tests. A few days before the test, you should not give your child new foods that he has never eaten before. At the same time, it is worth stopping the baby from taking prescribed medications, including medications against colic in newborns. Before submitting the biomaterial for analysis, the child should not be tested and used as treatment. It should also be abandoned for a while.

Before collecting the baby's feces for analysis, it is necessary to wash it well so that the analysis does not reveal the presence of foreign compounds. Biomaterial should be collected after the baby has urinated, otherwise the remaining urine may get into the feces and the analysis result will be somewhat distorted.

Feces should be collected in a clean container, which should preferably be sterilized beforehand. Usually, about ten milliliters of the baby’s morning stool are taken for analysis.

After collecting the biomaterial within a period of no more than two hours, it must be delivered to the laboratory for analysis. If it is impossible to transfer the collected feces within a given period of time, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to six hours. Parents today have a huge choice of clinics and laboratories that are ready to provide services for studying the child’s biomaterial. Parents themselves choose a medical institution and deliver the biomaterial there.

Under normal conditions, the human intestine contains a large number of bacteria that actively participate in the processing and further absorption of nutrients.

A stool test for dysbacteriosis is carried out to determine the content of bacteria in the intestinal environment. In most cases, it is prescribed to children in the presence of certain disorders leading to digestive disorders, diarrhea, constipation, flatulence, and abdominal pain. The analysis is also advisable in case of long-term use of antibiotics. Drugs in this group destroy not only pathogenic microflora, but also beneficial bacteria living in the intestines.

Main groups of intestinal bacteria

Bacteria found in the intestines are divided into three groups:

1. Normal:

• bifidobacteria;
• lactobacilli;
• Escherichia.

This group takes an active part in intestinal function.

2. Opportunistic pathogens can transform into pathogenic ones and lead to the development of diseases under certain conditions. These include:

• enterococci;
• staphylococci;
• clostridia;
• candida.

3. Pathogenic substances upon penetration into the intestines lead to severe infectious diseases. Representatives of this group are:

• shingella;
• salmonella.

Rules for collecting stool for analysis

1. Three days before taking the sample, you must follow a diet. Foods that lead to activation of fermentation processes in the intestinal environment should be excluded from the diet:

• fish and meat dishes;
• beets;
• alcoholic drinks.

2. Also, within three days before the test, you cannot use the following medications:

• antibiotics;
• bacterial preparations.
• laxatives;
• rectal suppositories;
• Vaseline or castor oil.

3. Before collecting the sample, wash the anus and perineum area.

4. The feces intended for analysis are taken from material obtained through spontaneous defecation, without the use of auxiliary means to accelerate the act.

5. The sample is collected in a completely sterile container with a tight-fitting lid. Care must be taken to ensure that no urine gets into the container.

6. At least 10 grams of feces (about 1 teaspoon) should be collected in the container.

7. On the cover indicate your full name, date of birth, specific time and date of receipt of the laboratory sample.

How should the sample be stored before delivery to the laboratory?

You should try to send the material for analysis as soon as possible - preferably within 30-40 minutes. The maximum allowed period is 2 hours.

The less time passes, the more reliable the analyzes will be.

The reason for this is that most intestinal bacteria are anaerobic. In other words, they can live in an oxygen-free environment and die upon contact with it, which naturally affects the reliability of the analysis results.

Bifidobacteria

The vast majority of gut bacteria (approximately 95%) are bifidobacteria. They take part in the synthesis of B vitamins, as well as vitamin K, and contribute to the absorption of vitamin D.

In addition, bifidobacteria produce substances that destroy pathogens and strengthen the immune system.

The main reasons for the reduction in their number are:

1. Taking medications:

• antibiotics;
• non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (for example, aspirin);
• laxatives.

2. Poor nutrition:

• with excess protein, fat or carbohydrate content;
• starvation;
• wrong mode;
• artificial feeding.

3. Intestinal infections:

• salmonellosis;
• dysentery;
• infections of viral origin.

4. Chronic pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract:

• gastritis;
• stomach ulcer;
• duodenal ulcer;
• cholecystitis;
• pancreatitis.

5. Immune pathologies:

• immunodeficiencies;
• allergies.

6.Enzymopathies:

• lactase deficiency;
• celiac disease.

7. Stress.

8. Change of climate zone.

Lactobacilli

This group of bacteria accounts for 4 to 6% of the mass of intestinal bacteria. They also play an important role in the body:

1. Maintain pH level;

2. Synthesize substances that help destroy pathogenic microflora:

• lactic and acetic acid;
• acidophilus;
• lactocidin;
• hydrogen peroxide.

3. Produce lactase.

The level of lactobacilli may decrease for the following reasons:

1. Due to the use of certain medications:

• antibiotics;
• NSAIDs;
• laxatives.

2. As a result of improper nutrition, starvation, artificial feeding.

3. In the presence of intestinal infections.

4. For chronic gastrointestinal pathologies.

5. Due to stress.

Escherichia

This group of microorganisms is present in the intestines from birth and remains there throughout life. Escherichia is involved in the following processes:

• in the synthesis of vitamin K and B vitamins;
• in the absorption of sugars;
• in the synthesis of antibiotic-like substances - colicins, which destroy pathogenic microflora and strengthen the immune system.

The reduction in the number of these bacteria occurs due to the following reasons:

• antibiotic treatment;
• helminthiases;
• unbalanced diet;
• intestinal infections.

Bacteroides

Bacteroides take an active part in the processes of digestion, and more specifically: in the processing and absorption of fats. It should be noted that normally in babies under 6 months they are not detected in stool tests. Bacteroides appear in the intestinal environment starting from the eighth or ninth month of life.

The number of bacteroides may increase as a result of increased fat content in the diet.

A reduction in the level of bacteroids is a consequence of:

• antibiotic therapy;
• intestinal infections (salmonellosis, dysentery, viral infections).

Peptostreptococci

Normally, these bacteria live in the environment of the large intestine. Their penetration into other areas and an increase in the number of these microorganisms lead to the development of inflammatory diseases.

Pepptostreptococci perform the following functions:

• take part in the processing and assimilation of milk proteins and carbohydrates;
• produce hydrogen, which in the intestinal environment turns into hydrogen peroxide and controls the pH level.

An increase in the number of peptostreptococci may be a consequence of:

• consumption of carbohydrates in large quantities;
• availability chronic diseases gastrointestinal organs;
• intestinal infections.

Enterococci

This group of bacteria takes part in three processes:

• processing and absorption of carbohydrates;
• synthesis of vitamins;
• formation of local immunity (in the intestines).

Normally, the number of these bacteria should not be greater than the number of E. coli. Otherwise, they can provoke the development of a number of pathologies.

An increase in the content of enterococci may be a consequence of:

• helminthiases;
• immune diseases and other conditions leading to weakened immunity;
• food allergies;
• unbalanced diet;
• antibiotic therapy (if enterococcus is resistant to the antibiotic used);
• reducing the number of Escherichia coli (Escherichia).

Staphylococcus

This group includes:

• non-pathogenic staphylococci;
• pathogenic staphylococci.

The non-pathogenic variety is:

• non-hemolytic staphylococcus;
• epidermal.

Pathogenic ones include:

• golden (most dangerous);
• hemolytic;
• plasmacoagulating.

Staphylococci are not part of the normal intestinal microflora. They penetrate from the external environment with food
The entry of Staphylococcus aureus into the gastrointestinal tract leads to the development of toxic infections. This usually occurs due to poor hygiene (eg, dirty hands), with food, or while in a health care facility.

Clostridia

These bacteria take part in the processing of proteins, resulting in indole and skatole. These are toxic substances, but in small doses they stimulate intestinal peristalsis and accelerate the evacuation of feces.

An increase in the number of clostridia in the intestine leads to the synthesis of more skatole and indole and can provoke the development of putrefactive dyspepsia.

Candida

An increased content of candida in the intestinal environment leads to the development of fermentative dyspepsia and different types candidiasis.

An increase in candida may be a consequence;

• consumption of foods high in carbohydrates;
• taking antibiotics without simultaneous use of antifungal agents;
• use of hormonal contraceptives;
• diabetes mellitus;
• stress;
• pregnancy.