GI Map

The Gastrointestinal Microbial Assay Plus (GI-MAP) is an innovative clinical tool that measures gastrointestinal microbiota DNA from a single stool sample using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) technology. The panel provides insight into microbial balance and potential contributors to gastrointestinal dysfunction. It assesses a wide range of organisms that may influence gut health, including pathogenic bacteria, commensal bacteria, opportunistic organisms, fungi, viruses and parasites, together with key intestinal and immune markers such as calprotectin, secretory IgA and pancreatic elastase. This comprehensive analysis helps practitioners understand how microbial patterns may relate to digestive symptoms or broader health presentations. Results are interpreted alongside clinical history, digestive function and environmental factors. Quantitative reporting allows comparison over time to help review changes in microbial patterns following dietary, lifestyle or therapeutic interventions. Add-ons available include zonulin, StoolOMX (bile acids and short-chain fatty acids) and gluten peptide. Indications Digestive symptoms: Chronic diarrhoea, constipation, bloating, gas or abdominal pain. Altered bowel habits: Ongoing changes in stool frequency, urgency or consistency. Suspected gastrointestinal disorders: Evaluation in contexts such as irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease or coeliac disease. Recurrent gastrointestinal symptoms: Exploration of potential bacterial contributors including Escherichia coli or Helicobacter pylori. Malabsorption concerns: Unexplained weight loss, anaemia or signs of nutrient insufficiency. Immune-related conditions: Investigation of gastrointestinal factors in autoimmune or inflammatory presentations. Skin conditions: Eczema, acne or psoriasis where gut involvement is considered. Fatigue or neurological symptoms: Brain fog, low energy or mood changes in complex clinical presentations. Practical Specimen: Stool sample Container: 1x orange-capped stool vial Patient preparation: Please refrain from taking aspirin for two days prior to collecting your sample. Never discontinue prescription medication without first consulting your physician. Age requirements: Can be used on all ages. However, often the microbiome of infants will appear very “dysbiotic”, as the microbiome and the infant’s immune system is very immature. Available add-ons: Zonulin Medications: We recommend continuing all prescription medications prior to testing. Please carefully document any relevant recent or current medication use. Medications that may alter the composition of the microbiome include: Antibiotics -(after finishing Antibiotics, wait 4-6 weeksbefore collecting sample) Immune Suppressants/ Oral steroids- will likely cause a lower Secretory IgA, Anti-gliadin, and calprotectin result (after finishing these meds, wait 4-6 weeks before collecting sample)