Serratia er en type bakterie som vanligvis finnes i miljøet og noen ganger i menneskets tarmkanal. Selv om den som regel er harmløs hos friske individer, kan tilstedeværelsen i avføringen være bekymringsfull for personer med visse helseforhold. Påvisning i avføringstester kan indikere mulige ubalanser i tarmfloraen eller infeksjoner.
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.