What are the benefits to using the Infectious Diarrhea Panel?

• IDP is more sensitive than culture and microscopy.
• Results will generally be available sooner
• IDP is more comprehensive – it detects the most common viral causes of diarrhea including Norovirus and Rotavirus.
• A single collection swab instead of three different containers is more convenient for patients.
• The entire Province of BC has moved toward this technology.
• Please refer to “BC GPAC Infectious Diarrhea Guidelines”

How to Order a Test

• Order the test by writing in “IDP” or “Infectious Diarrhea Panel” in the OTHER TESTS section of the standard lab requisition.
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• Any orders for Stool for C&S or O&P will automatically be substituted with the IDP
• Stool samples should be collected with a single fecal swab sample (link to collection device instructions) that replaces multiple different stool collection devices:
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• If you require collection devices, please visit lifelabs.com and click the heading “Supplies” under the “Healthcare Providers” tab for ordering forms or call the Customer Care Centre at 1-800-431-7206. 

Things to Know

• Although comprehensive, the IDP does not test for everything. If you are concerned about a particular organism that the IDP does not cover, please contact the Medical Microbiologist on call at 1-800-431-7206
• IDP does not test for worms/helminths. Worms usually do not cause diarrhea. However, if you have a patient where there is a concern for enteric worm infection, please order this separately by writing in OTHER TESTS “Stool Microscopy”. Stool for microscopy must be collected in a formalin fixative (SAF) container. If you do not have these at your office, you can order them from LifeLabs or send your patient to your local Patient Service Centre with a signed lab requisition and the appropriate container will be provided.

For additional questions or concerns, please contact our Customer Care Centre at 1-800-431-7206 or submit an inquiry here.