Saliva Tests
| Test Name (Test Code) | Description |
| Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) | Follicle-stimulating Hormone is a hormone made by a small gland in your brain (the pituitary gland). It plays an important role in reproductive health. In women, FSH helps eggs develop in the ovaries, supports ovulation, and regulates menstrual cycles. In men, FSH stimulates the production of sperm. |
| Luteinizing hormone (LH) | Luteinizing Hormone is a natural hormone made by the pituitary gland in your brain. In women, LH triggers ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary) and supports the production of hormones needed for a healthy pregnancy. In men, LH stimulates the testes to produce testosterone, which is important for sperm production and overall health. |
| Testosterone (TTF) | Testosterone is a natural hormone made mainly in the testes in men and in smaller amounts in the ovaries and adrenal glands in women. It plays a key role in energy levels, libido, muscle and bone strength, and sperm production in men. Women also need testosterone for optimal bone health, mood, and overall well-being, though at much lower levels. |
| Androstenedione (AND) | Androstenedione is a hormone made by the adrenal glands, ovaries, and testes. It acts as a building block for other hormones, including testosterone and estrogen. It plays a role in normal development, puberty, and overall hormone balance in both men and women. Your doctor may test your salivary androstenedione level to help evaluate hormonal imbalances, HPA axis dysfunction, fertility concerns, or symptoms like excess hair growth, hair loss, or irregular periods. |
| Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) | Dihydrotestosterone is a hormone that is made from testosterone. In men, it helps regulate hair growth, skin health, and prostate health. In women, it contributes to normal hormone balance and hair and skin health. Excessive DHT production is linked to several health concerns, including male pattern baldness, acne, and excess facial/body hair in women. An optimal DHT level is important – too much or too little can affect skin, hair, and overall hormonal balance. |
| Estrone (E1) | Estrone is an estrogen hormone that plays an important role in adult men and women. It is produced mainly in fat tissue and becomes the most common estrogen in women after menopause. Estrone supports optimal bone strength, skin health, and overall hormone balance. Estrone levels that are too high or too low may be linked to health concerns, such as weight concerns, osteopenia, and osteoporosis. |
| Estradiol (E2) | Estradiol is the most active form of estrogen and plays a key role in hormonal balance for both women and men during adulthood. In women, it helps regulate menstrual cycles, supports bone strength, and affects mood and skin, while in men it contributes to bone health and reproductive function in smaller amounts. Estradiol levels naturally decline with age, especially during menopause. Hormonal imbalances may lead to symptoms, such as hot flashes, or an increased risk of developing osteoporosis or heart disease. |
| Estriol (E3) | Estriol is a weaker form of estrogen that is produced from the more potent estrone and estradiol. In women, it helps support overall hormone balance and may play a role in vaginal and urinary tract health, while men have very low levels. |
| Progesterone (P1) | Progesterone is a hormone that supports reproductive health and fertility in adult women, while also playing smaller, but important, roles in men. In women, it prepares the uterus for pregnancy and helps balance the effects of estrogen, and in men it contributes to hormonal balance and the production of other hormones, including testosterone. Levels can change with age or life stages, such as during menopause, and imbalances may lead to symptoms, including irregular periods, sleep changes, weight concerns, or mood shifts. |
| Cortisol (CORT or TAP) | Cortisol is a hormone made by the adrenal glands that helps your body respond to stress and maintain daily functions like metabolism, blood pressure, and immune activity. It follows a natural daily rhythm, highest in the morning and lower at night, to support optimal energy and sleep cycles. Balanced cortisol levels are important for overall health, mood, metabolism, optimal immune activity, weight management, blood glucose management, sleep, and resilience to stress. |
| 17-OH Progesterone (P17-OH) | 17-Hydroxyprogesterone is a hormone made by the adrenal glands and reproductive organs, and it serves as a building block (precursor) for important hormones, including cortisol and testosterone. In adults, it helps reflect how well the body is producing these hormones and maintaining balance. Abnormal levels may be linked to non-classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia (NCCAH), mitochondrial dysfunction, or other health concerns. |
| DHEA & DHEA-S (DHEA) | DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a hormone made mainly by the adrenal glands that helps your body produce other hormones, including estrogen and testosterone. In adults, it plays a role in energy, mood, immune function, and overall hormone balance, with levels naturally declining with age. Abnormal DHEA levels may be linked to conditions, such as adrenal insufficiency, PCOS, or hormonal imbalances that can affect hair, skin, energy levels, or fertility. |
| Insulin, fasting & non-fasting (ISN1 & ISN2) | Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas that helps control blood sugar by allowing the glucose to enter your cells for energy. In adults, it plays a key role in metabolism and keeping blood sugar levels within a healthy range. When the body doesn’t make enough insulin or doesn’t use it effectively, it can lead to conditions like hypoglycemia, type 2 diabetes, obesity, or insulin resistance. Optimal insulin levels are crucial for energy, weight management, and overall health. |
| Milk (casein) antibody, sIgA (FI-1) | Milk (casein) antibody, sIgA food sensitivity test checks whether your immune system reacts to casein, a protein found in cow’s milk and many dairy products. This test looks for antibodies in your saliva that may indicate sensitivity or intolerance, which can sometimes cause digestive issues, skin reactions, fatigue, mucous production, or other symptoms. The saliva sIgA test is not the same as a milk allergy test, which detects severe allergic responses. Understanding your results can help guide dietary choices and identify foods that may be contributing to inflammation. |
| Soy (protein) antibody, sIgA (FI-2) | Soy (protein) antibody, sIgA food sensitivity test checks whether your immune system reacts to soy protein. This test looks for antibodies in your saliva that may indicate sensitivity or intolerance, which can sometimes cause digestive issues, skin reactions, mood changes, fatigue, or other symptoms. The saliva sIgA test is not the same as a soy allergy test, which detects severe allergic responses. Understanding your results can help guide dietary choices and identify foods that may be contributing to inflammation. |
| Egg (ovalbumin) antibody, sIgA (FI-3) | Egg (ovalbumin) antibody, sIgA food sensitivity test checks whether your immune system reacts to ovalbumin, a protein in eggs. This test looks for antibodies in your saliva that may indicate sensitivity or intolerance, which can sometimes cause digestive issues, changes in mood, fatigue, joint pain, skin reactions, or other symptoms. The saliva sIgA test is not the same as an egg allergy test, which detects severe allergic responses. Understanding your results can help guide dietary choices and identify foods that may be contributing to inflammation. |
| Gluten (gliadin) antibody, sIgA (FI-4) | Gluten (gliadin) antibody, sIgA food sensitivity test checks whether your immune system reacts to gliadin, a protein in wheat and other grains. This test looks for antibodies in your saliva that may indicate sensitivity or intolerance, which can sometimes cause digestive issues, joint pain, mood changes, fatigue, skin reactions, or other symptoms. The saliva sIgA test is not the same as a gluten or wheat allergy test, which detects severe allergic responses. Understanding your results can help guide dietary choices and identify foods that may be contributing to inflammation. |
| Total salivary sIgA (MB2S) | Secretory IgA (sIgA) is an important antibody found in your saliva, gut, and along other mucosal surfaces. It acts as a first line of defense by stopping harmful bacteria, viruses, allergens, and other substances from entering your body. Measuring sIgA regularly can provide insight into how well your body’s immune defenses are working. |
| Toxoplasma gondii antibody, sIgA (GP6S) | The Toxoplasma gondii antibody, sIgA test checks your immune system’s response to Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite that can cause infection, often through undercooked meat or contact with cat feces. A positive result can help doctors identify if you’ve been exposed, even if you don’t have obvious symptoms. Understanding your sIgA levels can guide treatment and steps to prevent complications, especially in pregnant women or those with weakened immune systems. |
| Entamoeba histolytica antibody, sIgA (GP7S) | The Entamoeba histolytica antibody, sIgA test checks your immune system’s response to Entamoeba histolytica, a parasite that can cause intestinal infections and digestive symptoms. A positive result can help your healthcare provider confirm exposure, even if symptoms are mild or not clear. Knowing your sIgA levels can guide treatment and help prevent complications like prolonged diarrhea or intestinal inflammation. |
| Helicobacter pylori antibody, IgG (GP8S) | The Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) antibody, IgG test checks whether your body has been exposed to H. pylori, a bacteria that can infect the stomach and sometimes cause ulcers or digestive discomfort. This test looks for IgG antibodies, which show past or ongoing infection, but a positive result does not always mean the infection is currently active. It helps your healthcare provider understand potential causes of stomach pain, indigestion, or other gastrointestinal issues. Knowing your IgG results can guide further testing or treatment to protect your digestive health. |
| Ascaris lumbricoides (roundworm) antibody, sIgA (ASC) | The Ascaris lumbricoides (roundworm) antibody, sIgA test checks your immune system’s response to Ascaris lumbricoides, a common intestinal parasite that can be associated with allergies. The test measures sIgA antibodies, which indicate whether your body is actively responding to a past or current infection. A positive result can help your healthcare provider confirm exposure, even if you don’t have obvious symptoms like digestive upset. Understanding your sIgA levels can guide treatment and help prevent complications from the infection. |
| Taenia solium (tapeworm) antibody, sIgA (T-SOL) | The Taenia solium (tapeworm) antibody, sIgA test checks your immune system’s response to Taenia solium, a parasite that can infect the intestines or, in rare cases, other tissues. It measures sIgA antibodies, which can help your healthcare provider confirm exposure, even if you don’t have digestive symptoms. Knowing your sIgA levels can guide treatment and help prevent complications like digestive discomfort or, in rare cases, tissue involvement. |
| Trichinella spiralis antibody, sIgA (TRIC) |
The Trichinella spiralis antibody, sIgA test checks your immune system’s response to Trichinella spiralis, a parasite that can be contracted from undercooked pork or wild game. It measures sIgA antibodies, which can help your healthcare provider confirm exposure, even if symptoms like muscle pain, fever, or digestive issues are mild or not obvious. Understanding your sIgA levels can guide treatment and help prevent complications from the infection. |
Stool Tests
| Test Name (Test Code) | Description |
| Ova and parasites, one sample (GP1) | An ova and parasites (O&P), one sample stool test is used to detect intestinal parasites and their eggs (ova) in a person’s digestive system. It helps diagnose infections caused by organisms such as protozoa and helminths, which can lead to symptoms, including diarrhea, abdominal pain, and nausea. This test requires a single stool sample, though multiple samples on different days may improve accuracy. The parasitology team will examine the preserved stool sample under a microscope to identify any parasites or eggs present. While examining the stool sample, our parasitologists may also observe yeast, red blood cells (RBCs), or white blood cells (WBCs) in the microscopic field. As an added clinical value, our team is trained to identify and quantify these findings and include them in the GP1 report whenever they are present. |
| Ova and parasites, two samples, pooled (GP2) | An ova and parasites (O&P), two samples, pooled stool test is used to detect intestinal parasites and their eggs (ova) in a person’s digestive system. It helps diagnose infections caused by organisms such as protozoa and helminths, which can lead to symptoms, including diarrhea, abdominal pain, and nausea. The parasitology team will combine and concentrate the two preserved stool samples to examine them under a microscope to identify any parasites or eggs present. Collecting two samples on different days may significantly improve the likelihood of diagnosing a current parasitic infection. While examining the stool samples, our parasitologists may also observe yeast, red blood cells (RBCs), or white blood cells (WBCs) in the microscopic field. As an added clinical value, our team is trained to identify and quantify these findings and include them in the GP2 report whenever they are present. |
| Ova and parasites, three samples (GP2B) |
An ova and parasites (O&P), three samples stool test in the gold standard test for diagnosing many different parasitic infections, including helminths (worms) and protozoa. The parasitology team will concentrate and thoroughly examine each preserved stool sample separately under a microscope to identify and report the presence of parasites or eggs. Collecting three samples on different days may significantly improve the likelihood of diagnosing a current parasitic infection, since ova and parasites may not be present in every stool sample. While examining the stool samples, our parasitologists may also observe yeast, red blood cells (RBCs), or white blood cells (WBCs) in the microscopic field. As an added clinical value, our team is trained to identify and quantify these findings and include them in the GP2B report whenever they are present. |
| GI parasite, gross exam, one sample (GP1G) | The GI parasite, gross exam, one sample test will identify a visible organism present in a stool sample. The “worm-like” or other entity is placed in a collection vial and sent to the laboratory for macroscopic evaluation by our world-class parasitology team. The GP1G test can help identify larger parasites, such as Ascaris lumbricoides (roundworm) or Taenia spp. (tapeworm), that can be seen without a microscope. Findings from the gross exam guide further microscopic or diagnostic testing to confirm and classify the infection. |
| Giardia lamblia antigen (GP4) | The Giardia lamblia antigen test is used to detect proteins from the Giardia parasite in a stool sample to diagnose giardiasis, an acute infection that can cause diarrhea, gas, stomach cramps, nausea, and other symptoms. |
| Cryptosporidium antigen (GP5) | The Cryptosporidium antigen test detects specific proteins from this parasite in a stool sample. It is used to diagnose cryptosporidiosis, an acute infection that can cause watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, dehydration, and other symptoms. This test is more sensitive than traditional stool microscopy and can detect an infection even when only small amounts of the parasite are present. |
| Stool culture for yeast (CS1) | A stool culture for yeast test checks a fresh (unpreserved) stool sample for an overgrowth of yeast, such as Candida, in the digestive tract. The sample is placed in a special environment that allows yeast to grow so it can be identified by MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry. This test may be used when symptoms like ongoing diarrhea, bloating, or abdominal discomfort are present. Results help determine whether yeast overgrowth could be contributing to symptoms and guide appropriate treatment. |
| Bacterial stool culture, enteric pathogens, including Campylobacter antigen and Shiga toxin (GP3) | The Bacterial Stool Culture, enteric pathogens test checks a fresh (unpreserved) stool sample for the growth of healthy commensal bacteria, opportunistic pathogens, and pathogens, such as Proteus, Shigella, Aeromonas, and Vibrio, in the digestive tract. The sample is placed on special media that allow bacteria to grow so they can be identified. MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry used to reliably identify the largest bacterial colonies. The GP3 also includes a Campylobacter antigen test, which detects specific Campylobacter proteins in a stool sample to diagnose an acute infection, and a Shiga toxin test. A Shiga toxin stool test detects harmful toxins produced by certain strains of E. coli. These toxins can cause symptoms like severe diarrhea (sometimes bloody), stomach cramps, and vomiting. The test will quickly identify an infection that may lead to more serious complications, such as Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS). |
| Expanded Bacterial Stool Culture with complete aerobic identification (GP3x) | The Expanded Bacterial Stool Culture is a GP3 test (as described above) with a complete aerobic culture that reports all of the bacterial colonies isolated on the culture plates, rather than simply the most dominant species as reported on our standard GP3 culture results. The culture and identification methods for the GP3x are comparable to the GP3, with the additional MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry identification of all isolated bacterial colonies. |
| C. difficile toxins A and B (GP3CD) | A Clostridioides difficile toxins A and B stool test checks for toxins made by this bacteria in a stool sample. These toxins can cause symptoms, such as watery diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and inflammation of the colon. The test helps diagnose a C. diff infection, which can occur after antibiotic use or in healthcare settings. Results help guide prompt treatment and infection control measures. |
| Helicobacter pylori antigen (HpSA) | A Helicobacter pylori stool antigen test checks a stool sample for proteins from this bacteria, which can infect the stomach lining. It is used to help diagnose H. pylori infections that may cause symptoms like stomach pain, bloating, nausea, or ulcers. The test is noninvasive and can also be used to confirm that treatment has successfully cleared the infection. Results help guide appropriate therapy and follow-up care. |
| Chymotrypsin (FG1) | A chymotrypsin stool test measures the level of the digestive enzyme chymotrypsin in a stool sample to help evaluate pancreatic function. Low levels of chymotrypsin may indicate pancreatic insufficiency, a condition in which the pancreas does not produce enough enzymes for proper digestion. |
| Occult blood (FG4) | A fecal occult blood test (FOBT) detects hidden (occult) blood in the stool that is not visible to the naked eye. It is commonly used as a screening tool for colorectal cancer and other conditions such as polyps, ulcers, or gastrointestinal bleeding. A positive result indicates the presence of blood but does not identify the source, so additional testing (such as colonoscopy) is usually needed. Regular screening with FOBT can help detect problems early, when treatment is most effective. |
| Fecal pH (FG5) | A fecal pH test measures the acidity or alkalinity of a stool sample to help assess digestive function. It is often used to evaluate carbohydrate malabsorption, as undigested sugars can be fermented by bacteria and produce acidic byproducts. The pH of the stool should not be confused with stomach pH, and is not directly influenced by hydrochloric acid. Factors that have an impact on stool pH include fiber and food constituent intake, fermentive processes, infectious agents, antibiotics, and stool transit time. Results are typically considered alongside symptoms and other tests. |
| Total intestinal sIgA (MB2) | The total intestinal secretory IgA (sIgA) test measures the level of secretory immunoglobulin A in a stool sample to evaluate immune activity in the gastrointestinal tract. Secretory IgA plays a key role in mucosal immunity by helping protect against pathogens and maintaining a balanced gut microbiome. Abnormal levels, either low or elevated, may indicate immune dysfunction, chronic stress, inflammation, or ongoing infection in the intestines. Results are typically interpreted in the context of symptoms and other laboratory findings to assess overall gut health. |
| Lysozyme (MB3) | The lysozyme test measures the level of lysozyme, an enzyme involved in the body’s immune defense, in a stool sample. Elevated levels of lysozyme can indicate intestinal inflammation, as it is released by immune cells during inflammatory processes. This test is sometimes used to help evaluate conditions like inflammatory bowel disease or intestinal infections. Results are interpreted alongside symptoms and other diagnostic tests to better understand gastrointestinal health. |
| Alpha 1-antichymotrypsin (MB4) |
The alpha-1 antichymotrypsin test measures the level of this protein, a marker of inflammation, in a stool sample. Elevated levels may indicate intestinal inflammation or increased leakage of plasma proteins into the gastrointestinal tract. This test can be helpful in assessing conditions, such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) or other causes of intestinal mucosal damage. Results are typically interpreted alongside clinical symptoms and additional laboratory findings. |
| Calprotectin (CAL) | A calprotectin test measures the level in a stool sample to assess inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. Elevated levels are associated with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative colitis, severe infection, and colorectal cancer. The test helps distinguish between inflammatory disorders and non-inflammatory conditions, such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Results are typically used alongside symptoms and other diagnostic tests to guide further evaluation or treatment. |
Urine, Swab, and Paddle Tests
| Test Name (Test Code) | Description |
| Pyrilinks-D, Urine (DPD) | A Pyrilinks-D test measures the level of deoxypyridinoline (DPD), a compound released during the breakdown of bone collagen, in a urine sample. DPD is a marker of bone resorption, helping to assess the current rate of bone loss in the body. Elevated levels may be associated with conditions such as osteoporosis or increased bone turnover. The DPD test can also be ordered to assess the efficacy of a bone-supportive treatment protocol. |
| Swab Culture for Yeast, Specify Source, Mucosal (CS3) | A swab culture for yeast test uses a sample swabbed from a mucosal surface, such as the vaginal, throat, or oral mucosa, to assess for the presence of yeast, including Candida species. The sample is cultured in a specialized growth medium that promotes yeast proliferation, allowing for accurate detection and identification. Advanced techniques such as MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry are then used to precisely identify the organism. Results help determine whether yeast overgrowth may be contributing to symptoms and can guide appropriate treatment decisions. |
| Pinworm Detection Test, Three Samples (PINW) | The Pinworm Detection Test diagnoses an infection with Enterobius vermicularis by collecting eggs from the skin around the anus. A small adhesive paddle is pressed against the area on three different days, typically in the morning before bathing or using the restroom, when eggs are most likely to be present. The three samples are then examined under a microscope to identify pinworm eggs. This test confirms infection and guides appropriate treatment to relieve symptoms, such as itching and discomfort. |