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Viruses are a major cause of gastroenteritis among neonates, infants and young children. As a group, these viruses are most fastidious and cannot easily be grown in tissue culture. However, diagnosis of these agents can be easily performed by electron microscopy (EM), using a rapid whole mount technique. Since EM is a "catch-all" procedure, members of seven distinct viral groups can be simultaneously identified, providing a sensitive and specific test for the diagnosis of virally caused cases of gastroenteritis.
The seven viral groups that can be identified in stool specimens by EM include: Rotavirus, Adenovirus, Astrovirus, Calicivirus, Norwalk-like agent, Enterovirus (pico/parvovirus-like), and Enteric Coronavirus (Torovirus-like). These enteric coronaviruses are distinct from respiratory coronaviruses by EM and can be identified by characteristic features under the electron microscope. We have had considerable experience with the identification of the pleomorphic enteric coronavirus since 1979, when the first outbreak of these particles was documented in the U.S.A. in a neonatal intensive care unit. Enteric coronaviruses have also been identified around the world in different climatic conditions.
Since tissue sectioning is not performed, this viral testing can be performed quickly (results within 2 days after receipt of the specimen), does not require any prior fixation of the specimen, and is most cost-effective.
STOOL ORDER FORM and billing information should accompany all specimens. Biomedical Diagnostics & Research, Inc. , does not bill patients or insurance companies directly.
Specimen Collection: Stool specimens should be stored in the refrigerator prior to shipment. Rectal swabs should be swirled into a small vial containing 1-2 mls of distilled water and refrigerated (DO NOT FREEZE). Do not place specimen into any EM or other fixative.
Shipment: Pack stool specimens with Blue Ice or equivalent, using overnight mail. DO NOT SHIP ON DRY ICE!
All Clients outside of Phoenix and Tucson areas should Ship Stools TO:
J2 Express Delivery Service
Stools for Biomedical Diagnostics & Research, Inc.
3640 North First Ave
Suite 130
Tucson, Arizona 85719
All Clients within the Phoenix or Tucson areas
should Call J2 Express for pick-up (Tel. 520-292-6555)
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