Laboratory Test Reference Guide

Laboratory Information

Test Name

Clostridium difficile toxin (Faeces)

Synonyms

C. diff
C. difficile
CDI
Pseudomembranous colitis

Specimen Collection

Specimen Collection and Transport Protocols

Clostridium difficile toxin should be considered in any patient that is on antibiotics or has been on antibiotics up to six weeks prior to developing diarrhoeal symptoms.

Grape / Walnut size sample of faeces.

Test Information

Department

Microbiology

Test Availability

Mon -Fri, 0800-1630

Laboratory Turnaround Time

Monday - Friday 0800 - 1630. Test not performed at weekends or Public Holidays except via phoned request.

Method

Glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) / Toxins A+B / PCR