Specialized Laboratory Testing

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Metabolic pathways such as methylation, sulfonation and other pathways of detoxification, create physiological changes in the expression of wellness.  The MaxFunction Panel tests for 80 different genetic variations that influence many aspect of your health.  Using a simple and non-invasive cheek swab, this is a safe and affordable way to see if your genetics are affecting your health.

More than ever before, we are keenly aware of the health benefits or disease risks brought about by the microorganisms that inhabit the human body. Culture techniques, previously the standard, left up to 50% of bacterial species virtually invisible. Because most of the bacteria of the GI tract are anaerobes, culture based methods cannot cultivate them which leaves a large blind spot for clinicians when trying to diagnose the source of infection. 

The GI-MAP stool test utilizes cutting edge, Quantitative PCR technology to provide a true DNA/PCR based stool test. This technology has high sensitivity, specificity and a rapid turnaround. The GI-MAP measures opportunistic organisms, normal flora, fungi, parasites and antibiotic resistance genes, immunologic markers for GI health and function including SIgA, Elastase, Calprotectin and Anti-gliadin (gluten) testing.

The Organic Acids Test offers a comprehensive metabolic snapshot of a patient’s overall health with over 70 markers.  It provides an accurate evaluation of intestinal yeast and bacteria.  Abnormally high levels of these microorganisms can cause or worsen behavior disorders, hyperactivity, movement disorders, fatigue and immune function. Many people with chronic illnesses and neurological disorders often excrete several abnormal organic acids in their urine. The cause of these high levels could include oral antibiotic use, high sugar diets, immune deficiencies, acquired infections, as well as genetic factors.

The Organic Acids Test also includes markers for vitamin and mineral levels, oxidative stress, neurotransmitter levels, and is the only test to include markers for oxalates, which are highly correlated with many chronic illnesses.

If abnormalities are detected using the Organic Acids Test, treatments can include supplements, such as vitamins and create , or dietary modification. Upon treatment, patients have reported significant improvement such as decreased fatigue, regular bowel function, increased energy and alertness, increased concentration, improved verbal skills, less hyperactivity, and decreased abdominal pain. The Organic Acids Test is strongly recommended as an initial screening test. 

Immune mediated and other hypersensitivity reactions to foods and aeroallergens are characterized by elevated specific antibody levels in the affected individual’s blood. Research indicates that these types of reactions are implicated in a number of health problems. Through the Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) & Chemiluminescence methodology, Food Sensitivity Testing is a useful tool to assess patient sensitivities to large number of foods.

Mycotoxins are some of the most prevalent toxins in the environment.  Mycotoxins are metabolites produced by fungi like mold, which can infest buildings, vehicles, and foodstuffs.   A majority of mycotoxin exposures are through food ingestion or airborne exposure.  In the European Union, 20% of all grains harvested have been found to be contaminated with mycotoxins.  Unfortunately, mycotoxins are resistant to heat and many processing procedures.

Fungi are able to grow on almost any surface, especially if the environment is warm and wet.  Inner wall materials of buildings, wall paper, fiber glass insulation, ceiling tiles, and gypsum support are all good surfaces for fungi to colonize.  These fungi then release mycotoxins into the environment causing symptoms of many different chronic diseases.  Diseases and symptoms linked to mycotoxin exposure include fever, pneumonia-like symptoms, heart disease, rheumatic disease, asthma, sinusitis, cancer, memory loss, vision loss, chronic fatigue, skin rashes, depression, ADHD, anxiety, and liver damage.  Mycotoxin testing can identify mycotoxin exposures to make recommendations for effective detoxification treatments.