Test for the presence of Shigatoxin 1 and 2.
Performed routinely on Stool Cultures.
May be ordered as a separate test when indicated.
DEPARTMENT ONLY ORDER – Shigatoxin 1 and 2 EIA
Useful For
The SHIGA TOXIN QUIK CHEK test is a rapid membrane enzyme immunoassay for the simultaneous qualitative detection and differentiation of Shiga toxin 1 (Stx1) and Shiga toxin 2 (Stx2) in a single test device.
It is intended for use with human fecal samples from patients with gastrointestinal symptoms to aid in the diagnosis of disease caused by Shiga toxin producing Escherichia coli (STEC).
It may be used with fecal specimens, or broth or plate cultures derived from fecal specimens. The test results should be considered in conjunction with the patient history.
Method Name
Rapid Membrane Enzyme Immunoassay
Specimen Type
- Fecal specimens in transport media (e.g. Cary Blair, C&S).
- Do not use fecal specimens in Formalin-based fixative (e.g. sodium acetate formalin, 10% formalin) or in alcohol-based fixative (e.g. polyvinyl alcohol).
Specimen Required
Fecal specimens in transport media (e.g. Cary Blair, C&S)
Specimen Minimum Volume
5 ml actual stool /fecal material
Specimen Stability Information
Fecal specimens in transport media (Cary Blair) can be stored between 20 and 80C for up to 5 days
Rejected Due To
Fecal specimens in transport media (Cary Blair) can be stored between 20 and 80C greater than 5 days old.
Special Instructions
Negative for enterohemorrhagic Shiga Toxin E. coli (STEC) – negative results for Shigatoxin1 and Shigatoxin 2
Note: A negative test does not exclude the diagnosis of hemorrhagic colitis.
Positive for enterohemorrhagic Shiga Toxin Ecoli. (STEC) – results may be positive for Shigatoxin 1, Shigatoxin 2 or both toxins.
Note: Positive patients should be monitored for kidney function and early signs of hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). Patients positive for Shigatoxin 2 have a higher risk of developing HUS.
A positive result does not exclude infection caused by another enteric pathogen.
- The SHIGA TOXIN QUIK CHEK test is used to detect Shigatoxin 1 (Stx1) and Shigatoxin 2 (Stx2) in fecal specimens and cultures.
- The test confirms the presence of Shigatoxin 1 (Stx1) and Shigatoxin 2 (Stx2) in the sample, and this information should be taken under consideration by the physician in light of the clinical history and physical examination of the patient.
- A negative test result does not preclude the possibility of the presence of Shiga toxins in the specimen, which may occur if the level of antigen is below the detection limit of the test.
- The SHIGA TOXIN QUIK CHEK test is qualitative with either a Positive or Negative result.
Performing Laboratory
Glens Falls Hospital Microbiology Laboratory
Day(s) and Time(s) Performed
Day Shift
7 days per week
Analytical Time
24 – 36 hour TAT
Specimen Retention Time
72 hours
Analytical Time
24 – 36 hour TAT