Examination of the intestinal microflora

The Stool Flora Analysis can be used to detect changes in the mucosa and disorders of the microflora. This microbiological examination is suitable for monitoring the progression of gastrointestinal and multi-causal diseases. In adults, the unfolding of the intestinal mucosa into villi and microvilli achieves a total resorptive area of 150-200 square metres. The mucosa and intestinal lumen are populated by approximately 1x10^14 microorganisms, which can probably be divided into more than 400 species and subspecies. The number of microorganisms in the intestine therefore exceeds the number of body cells by a factor of ten. They are heavier and feature a larger metabolic capacity than the human liver, for example. This shows that changes in the intestinal mucosa and disorders of the microflora can have a profound effect on the physiological balance of the human being. The microbial population of the individual sections of the gastrointestinal tract varies greatly. The composition of the faecal flora is a suitable sum parameter that reflects the totality of all influencing factors affecting the intestine. Changes within the faecal flora are not specific to certain causes or diseases; however, their extent allows conclusions about the severity of a underlying disorder. Stool flora analyses are therefore very well suited for monitoring the progression of gastrointestinal diseases or diseases of multicausal origin.