metametrix change(discontinue) pcr dna method

Changes to GI Effects Stool Tests

Posted on October 21, 2013
Archive : October 2013
Category : News
As part of the ongoing work to integrate Genova and Metametrix laboratories, Genova have advised us of a number of changes to the GI Effects stool test which will take effect over the coming weeks.
- parasitology analysis will now be completed using O+P Microscopy techniques and either a positive or negative result will be reported (page 2 of the report)
- drug resistant genes will no longer be reported (page 2 of the report)
- pathogenic bacteria e.g. H. pylori, Campylobacter, C. difficile and Shiga Toxin E. coli will no longer be reported as standard but will be available to buy as an add-on.

im just gonna quote from one of the article i found:

The most pivotal test offered between the two labs is the comprehensive stool analysis. Both labs offered a similar panel, but their methods differed greatly. One utilized the DNA-based PCR method, which is highly superior, while the other utilized the standard culture method, which misses a lot.

Unfortunately, the lab using the inferior technologies (Genova Diagnostics) bought out the other lab (Metametrix Clinical Labs), due to Metametrix’s owners/directors aspiring to retire.

Back when Metametrix and Genova were bitter competitors, Metametrix wrote an article comparing the superior PCR microbial testing to the inferior culture-based testing. Of course, now that Genova has taken over and since Genova does culture and not PCR, they couldn’t have a disparaging article circulating out there.

Genova raised the prices on ALL of their testing – some prices didn’t go up much, while others became downright cost-prohibitive.

They fundamentally changed Metametrix’s stool analysis test in several ways. First, they decided to “split off” the four major pathogenic bacteria from the original panel. Now, if you want to test for those infections (which are common and you don’t dare NOT test for them!), they cost extra. Second, they’re substituting inferior culture-based methods where superior PCR-based methods used to be. And this is all after a price increase. And all without any warning.

Genova outright lied to its clients, promising that they would. Not. Touch. The Metametrix test. All of the changes in the above paragraph were made to the Metametrix version of the test. Way to build trust, Genova.

and,
by CHRIS KRESSER:
In terms of gut testing, the Metametrix test is the only one that’s really available overseas. because it’s DNA PCR testing, they have typically been able to do the testing overseas because the viability of the sample isn’t as big of a question when you’re doing the DNA PCR analysis… Well, the viability of the sample is still a question, but it’s not as time sensitive. But they’ve recently changed their testing methodology where they are doing some culture in addition to the DNA PCR methodology, so I’m not sure yet how that works internationally,[/quote]

so what other labs provides better stool test now? :( esp for international patient/cust