Introduction

At Copan, we are dedicated to developing innovative solutions that streamline and enhance microbiological sample collection, transport, and preservation. A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Microbiology provides strong support for the use of Copan’s FecalSwab® system with the BD MAX™ platform for enteric pathogen detection.

Study Design

The study, led by researchers from McMaster University and St. Joseph’s Healthcare in Hamilton, Canada, evaluated the performance of FecalSwab® compared to bulk stool samples for detecting enteric viruses and bacteria on the BD MAX™ system. The researchers collected 186 unpreserved stool specimens and prepared matched FecalSwab® and bulk stool aliquots for testing.

Equivalent Performance to Bulk Stool

Using the BD MAX™ enteric viral panel (EVP) and bacterial panel (EBP) assays, the study found no significant differences in overall detection of viral and bacterial pathogens between 50 µL of FecalSwab® sample and the standard bulk stool inoculation volumes. Agreement between FecalSwab® and bulk stool was 99.3% for the EVP and 99.5% for the EBP, demonstrating that FecalSwab® provides equivalent sensitivity to the gold standard.

Improved Detection in Low Positive Samples

Interestingly, in the 7 samples with discordant results, the pathogen was detected in the FecalSwab® sample but not the bulk stool. Further analysis revealed these samples had high cycle threshold (Ct) values, indicating low pathogen concentrations. This suggests that FecalSwab® may actually enhance detection in samples with lower target levels.

Enabling Convenient, Ambient Temperature Storage

To evaluate FecalSwab®’s capacity to preserve targets during transport, the researchers stored samples at 4°C, 22°C, and 35°C for up to 14 days. Viral targets remained stable in FecalSwab® at all temperatures over the two-week period, with the exception of astrovirus at the highest temperature at later timepoints. 

While bacterial targets showed some variability at ambient temperatures, refrigerated FecalSwab® samples were stable for the full 14 days. These findings highlight the flexibility that FecalSwab® provides for specimen handling.

Optimized for Automation and Molecular Assays

With its liquid-based format, FecalSwab® is well-suited for automated specimen processing, minimizing hands-on time and manual steps. The study also reinforces FecalSwab®’s compatibility with multi-target molecular panels like those on the BD MAX™, supporting its use across a range of enteric testing applications.

Conclusion

This study by Richard-Greenblatt, et al, provides robust evidence that Copan’s FecalSwab® is a reliable and high-performing collection and transport system for enteric pathogens. By demonstrating equivalency to bulk stool, enhanced sensitivity for low positives, and stability at varied temperatures, the study showcases FecalSwab®’s versatility for both traditional culture and cutting-edge molecular methods. At Copan, we’re proud to offer solutions like FecalSwab® that can help laboratories streamline workflow and optimize enteric disease diagnosis.

References:

1. Richard-Greenblatt M, Rutherford C, Luinstra K, et al. Evaluation of the FecalSwab for Stool Specimen Storage and Molecular Detection of Enteropathogens on the BD Max System. J Clin Microbiol. 2020 Sep 24;58(9):e00178-20. doi: 10.1128/JCM.00178-20