iClean® Stool Collection Tube

Note:

iClean® stool collection tube with DNA stabilization buffer is for easy self-collection & transport of

microbial DNA from feces/stool for gut microbiome analy

Specific Applications

1. Detection of Intestinal Parasites: Intestinal parasite infections are quite common worldwide. By using the iClean® stool collection tube to collect fecal samples, laboratory technicians can examine the samples under a microscope to check for the presence of parasite eggs, larvae, or adult parasites, such as roundworm eggs and tapeworm segments. This helps in diagnosing parasitic infections like ascariasis and taeniasis, enabling timely deworming treatment.
2. Diagnosis of Intestinal Bacterial Infections: Many types of bacteria can cause intestinal infections, including Escherichia coli, Salmonella, and Shigella. Samples collected with this collection tube can be used for bacterial culture and identification. Doctors can determine whether a patient has an intestinal bacterial infection by analyzing the types and characteristics of the cultured bacteria and then decide on an appropriate antibiotic treatment plan.
3. Detection of Intestinal Viruses: Certain viruses, such as rotavirus and norovirus, are common pathogens that cause diarrhea in infants, children, and adults. Fecal samples collected using the iClean® stool collection tube can be subjected to nucleic acid detection techniques, such as PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction), to detect the nucleic acid sequences of the viruses. This enables rapid and accurate diagnosis of intestinal viral infections, helping to isolate and treat patients in a timely manner and prevent the spread of the viruses.
4. Fecal Occult Blood Testing: Fecal occult blood may be an important indicator of intestinal tumors, ulcers, inflammatory bowel diseases, and other conditions. Samples collected with the iClean® stool collection tube can be used for chemical or immunological occult blood tests. The chemical method is based on the fact that the heme in hemoglobin has peroxidase activity, which can catalyze hydrogen peroxide to release nascent oxygen and oxidize chromogenic substances to cause color changes. The immunological method utilizes monoclonal antibodies against human hemoglobin to specifically bind to hemoglobin in feces. By detecting fecal occult blood, doctors can conduct preliminary screening and monitoring for intestinal diseases.
5. Analysis of Intestinal Microbiota: There is a vast and diverse microbial community in the human intestine, which plays a crucial role in human health. Fecal samples collected with the iClean® stool collection tube can be used for metagenomic sequencing analysis of the intestinal microbiota. By analyzing the composition, structure, and function of the intestinal microbiota, researchers can understand the balance state of the intestinal microecology and explore the associations between the intestinal microbiota and various diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and autism. This provides new ideas and methods for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases.

Precautions

1. Preparation Before Sample Collection: Before collecting samples, patients should avoid consuming foods and medications that may affect the test results. For example, avoid eating iron-rich foods (such as spinach, animal liver, etc.), bismuth agents, and activated carbon, as these substances may lead to false-positive results in fecal occult blood testing. Meanwhile, antibiotics should be discontinued at least 3 days in advance to avoid affecting the detection of intestinal bacteria.
2. Collection Process: When using the iClean® stool collection tube, ensure that the fecal samples are fresh and avoid mixing them with urine, water, or other contaminants. During collection, it is advisable to select different parts of the feces, especially those with mucus, blood, or abnormal colors, to ensure the representativeness of the samples. If collecting feces from infants, pay attention to avoiding urine contamination from the diaper. You can use a clean plastic bag or plastic wrap to catch the feces before transferring them to the collection tube.
3. Sample Preservation and Transportation: The collected samples should be sent for testing as soon as possible. Generally, it is recommended to deliver them to the laboratory within 1 – 2 hours. If it is not possible to send them in time, the samples should be stored in an environment at 2 – 8 °C, but the storage time should not exceed 24 hours. During transportation, attention should be paid to preventing sample leakage and jolting. Special sample transport boxes can be used, and cushioning measures should be taken to ensure the integrity and stability of the samples.
4. Personal Protection: When collecting fecal samples, pay attention to personal protection. Wear disposable gloves to avoid direct contact with feces. After collection, wash your hands promptly and properly dispose of the used gloves and other items to prevent cross-infection.