Yersinia (Stool)

Does this test have other names?

Yersiniosis test, Yersinia stool culture

What is this test?

This test checks for an infection from the Yersinia bacteria. The infection is also called yersiniosis. Most cases of infection in the U.S. are from a type of bacteria called Yersinia enterocolitica. This illness is most common in children. It tends to happen more often during the winter. Eating or handling undercooked pork—especially pork chitterlings, or intestines—raises the risk for this infection. That's because pigs often carry this type of bacteria.

Two other types of the bacteria cause disease in humans. Yersinia pseudotuberculosis causes belly (abdominal) pain like appendicitis. Yersinia pestis causes the disease known as the plague. A stool culture may be used to diagnose Y. enterocolitica and sometimes Y. pseudotuberculosis.

Why do I need this test?

You may need this test to see if you are infected with Y. enterocolitica. Common symptoms include:

• Fever.

• Vomiting.

• Diarrhea. This often has mucus or blood in it. It can last for weeks.

• Belly pain.

In adults, other symptoms may include:

• Bumpy nodules under the skin (erythema nodosum).

• Eye inflammation (uveitis).

• Arthritis.

Symptoms of Y. pseudotuberculosis include:

• Belly pain.

• Fever.

What other tests might I have along with this test?

The standard way to diagnose this illness is with a stool sample. The sample may be tested for other bacteria.

What do my test results mean?

Test results may vary depending on your age, gender, health history, and other things. Your test results may be different depending on the lab used. They may not mean you have a problem. Ask your doctor what your test results mean for you.

If Yersinia bacteria grow in the culture, the infection is causing your symptoms.

How is this test done?

This test is done with a stool sample. Your doctor will tell you how to collect a sample in a disposable specimen container with a lid. If you can't make a stool sample at the time of the test, a doctor may collect stool with a swab put into your rectum.

In some cases, a doctor may try to grow bacteria from a fluid sample taken from the abdominal lymph nodes, throat, or abdomen. A blood sample can also be used. 

Does this test pose any risks?

This test poses no known risks when done as a stool test.

What might affect my test results?

Contaminating the stool sample with urine or toilet paper could affect the results.

How do I get ready for this test?

You don't need to get ready for this test. But be sure your doctor knows about all the medicines, herbs, vitamins, and supplements you are taking. This includes medicines that don't need a prescription and any illegal drugs you may use.