Serratia, a type of bacteria often found in the environment, can also appear in the human intestinal tract. While it's generally harmless in healthy individuals, its presence in stool might be a concern for people with certain health conditions. Detecting Serratia in stool tests can indicate potential gut flora imbalances or infections....
Testing for Serratia in stool is important for individuals with gastrointestinal symptoms, immune-compromised patients, or those with a history of intestinal issues. It’s also helpful for people experiencing unexplained digestive discomfort or after a course of antibiotics.
Serratia species occur in a variety of infections. Elevated levels also often occur in people with diarrhea.
Serratia in stool can result from environmental exposure or ingestion. It can also proliferate due to a disrupted gut microbiome, often caused by antibiotic use or gastrointestinal disorders. Poor hygiene and contaminated food or water are other potential sources.