Histologic and Clinical Correlates of Multiplex Stool Polymerase Chain Reaction Assay Results

Erika Hissong, Jon Mowers, Lili Zhao, Joel K. Greenson, Michael Bachman, Laura W. Lamps

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

3 Scopus citations

Abstract

Context.—Multiplex stool polymerase chain reaction tests (SPTs) simultaneously test for many enteric pathogens. However, the clinical significance of a positive result, particularly in the context of chronic gastrointestinal disease, remains controversial. Objective.—To determine whether SPT results correlate with findings on colon biopsies obtained within a week of SPT or with clinical features. Design.—We reviewed 261 colon biopsies during a 15-month period that were obtained within a week of SPT, along with available clinical information, from patients with and without chronic idiopathic inflammatory bowel disease (CIIBD). Statistical analysis was used to test associations between SPT result, histologic features, and clinical variables. Results.—The most commonly detected pathogens were Clostridium difficile, enteropathogenic Escherichia coli, and norovirus. The presence of underlying CIIBD did not correlate with a positive SPT result or with a specific pathogen. Positive SPT result was significantly associated with neutrophilic activity, pseudomembranes, and increased intraepithelial lymphocytes. In addition, the presence of C difficile on SPT was significantly associated with pseudomembranes and neutrophilic activity. There were no other statistically significant relationships between SPT result and any other histologic abnormality. Only about half of SPT positive results were acted on clinically, and most patients with CIIBD were managed as having a presumed IBD flare. Conclusions.—SPTs have many advantages; however, interpretation of results, particularly in the background of chronic gastrointestinal disease, remains a challenge. Therapeutic decisions influenced by a positive SPT result should integrate biopsy findings, clinical data, and other laboratory testing to avoid inappropriate treatment.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1479-1485
Number of pages7
JournalArchives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
Volume146
Issue number12
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 2022

Funding

The authors gratefully acknowledge Rhonda Yantiss, MD, Liron Pantanowitz, MBBCh, Drew Pratt, MD, and Rondell Graham, MBBS, for their editorial assistance.

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pathology and Forensic Medicine
  • Medical Laboratory Technology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Histologic and Clinical Correlates of Multiplex Stool Polymerase Chain Reaction Assay Results'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this