Comments:

The Microbiology laboratory does not perform microscopic analysis for 
fecal leukocytes without laboratory consultation. The presence of fecal 
leukocytes has only a 29% sensitivity and a 20% positive predictive 
value (PPV) for Shigella, Salmonella,and Campylobacter spp. (J. Clin 
Microbiol. 31: 2233, 1993). The sensitivity and PPV of fecal leukocytes 
in predicting the results of C. difficile toxin assay are only 28% and 
27%, respectively (Diagn. Microbiol. Infect. Dis. 16: 313, 1993).

For approval, contact the Clinical Pathology resident at 131-4903 
Monday through Friday 0800-1700 and 131-3404 after 1700 and on 
weekends.  If approved, specimens are analyzed daily 0800-2300.