The GI-MAP by Diagnostic Solutions Laboratory is a cutting-edge stool test that uses quantitative PCR (qPCR) technology to analyze the DNA of microbes in the gut. It provides a detailed overview of the gut microbiome, identifying both beneficial and harmful organisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Additionally, the test includes markers for gut health, digestion, inflammation, and immune function. Understanding how to interpret these results can provide valuable insights into digestive and overall health.
The Pathogens section of the GI-MAP reveals the presence of harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites known to cause gastroenteritis and other conditions. Results are reported as colony-forming units per gram of stool (CFU/g), which quantifies the number of microbes. Even if a pathogen is detected, not all individuals will experience symptoms, as factors such as immune health and the presence of virulence factors play a role. High levels, however, typically suggest an infection that might require treatment.
The test also evaluates Opportunistic Bacteria and Fungi, which are normally present in the gut but can cause health issues when overgrown. High levels of these organisms indicate gut dysbiosis, meaning there is an imbalance in the microbiome that may lead to conditions such as small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) or inflammatory responses. Overgrowth of opportunistic pathogens, like Candida or Klebsiella, may require antimicrobial therapies or dietary changes to restore balance.
In addition to pathogens, the GI-MAP assesses the levels of Commensal/Keystone Bacteria — beneficial microbes that play key roles in digestion, nutrient absorption, and maintaining the gut barrier. Low levels of these bacteria are often associated with insufficiency dysbiosis, which can compromise immune function and increase susceptibility to infections. On the other hand, elevated levels of certain commensal bacteria can suggest digestive issues like low stomach acid or impaired bile flow, leading to imbalances in the gut flora.
Lastly, the GI-MAP includes Intestinal Health Markers like calprotectin, secretory IgA (sIgA), and elastase to assess inflammation, immune response, and digestive enzyme production. Elevated calprotectin indicates gut inflammation, often seen in conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), while low elastase suggests pancreatic insufficiency, impairing digestion. By interpreting these markers alongside the microbial results, healthcare providers can create targeted treatment plans to improve gut health and address underlying digestive disorders.
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