CLOSTRIDIUM DIFFICILE TOXIN A BY PCR

The CLOSTRIDIUM DIFFICILE TOXIN A BY PCR is a molecular diagnostic test that detects the tcdA gene encoding Clostridium difficile toxin A in stool samples using real‑time PCR. The assay delivers a qualitative result (detected / not detected) with high sensitivity and specificity compared with conventional toxin immunoassays, allowing faster and more reliable identification of toxin‑producing C. difficile strains.

This test is used to confirm suspected C. difficile infection (CDI) in patients with recent onset diarrhoea—particularly after antibiotic exposure, hospitalisation, or in elderly and immunocompromised individuals. With convenient home sample collection available across Dubai, PCR detection supports prompt clinical decisions, targeted therapy, and timely infection‑control measures; results should always be interpreted by a qualified clinician in the context of the patient’s symptoms and history.

• C. difficile tcdA gene (Toxin A)
• Qualitative detection (Detected / Not Detected)
• PCR internal control
• Sample extraction control
• Result validity/interpretation flag

• New‑onset watery diarrhoea, especially ≥3 stools/day
• Diarrhoea following recent antibiotic therapy
• Hospitalised patients or recent healthcare exposure
• Severe abdominal pain, fever, or leukocytosis with diarrhoea
• Elderly or immunocompromised individuals with unexplained diarrhoea

• High sensitivity and specificity for toxin A gene detection
• Rapid turnaround compared with culture or toxin immunoassays
• Convenient home stool collection across Dubai
• Actionable results to guide timely treatment and isolation measures
• Secure electronic reporting compatible with UAE healthcare requirements

• Fresh unformed (soft/watery) stool sample collected in supplied container
• Avoid testing formed stools — test only unformed samples
• Inform collector/clinic of recent antibiotics, laxatives, or bowel procedures
• Ensure sample is collected and handed to the courier same day for timely processing