Dietary Modifications
General and microbiota-targeted dietary recommendations based on the patient's specific bacterial profile.
Gut microbiota testing
Faecal Microbial Analysis (FMA) Test
Australia's leading culture-based stool test. Quantitative analysis of the full gut microbiota - aerobic bacteria, anaerobic bacteria, and yeasts - using the gold-standard culture method.
To use our testing, you need to be working with a Bioscreen registered practitioner. Results are sent directly to your practitioner. We can help connect you with a practitioner, or you can refer a practitioner here.
Overview
What is the FMA test?
The Faecal Microbial Analysis (FMA) test is a comprehensive assessment of the gut microbiota from the large intestinal tract. Bioscreen cultures, quantifies, and identifies the full spectrum of bacteria present — using the classical culture method that many clinical microbiologists regard as the gold standard for gut microbiota testing.
Unlike routine stool testing designed to detect enteric pathogens, the FMA measures your patient’s commensal gut bacteria — the living organisms that make up the gut ecosystem. This gives you quantitative data on actual bacterial load, not just a yes/no presence result.
Our FMA test goes beyond detection.
Bioscreen’s culture method measures actual bacterial load – not just presence.
What it Measures
A Complete Picture of the Gut Microbiota
The FMA cultures and identifies both aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, as well as yeasts. All organisms are identified using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry - capable of distinguishing thousands of bacterial species from their unique peptide fingerprint.
An Example of What Our Testing Identifies
Aerobic Bacteria
- Coliforms
- Enterococcus spp
- Streptococcus spp
Anaerobic Bacteria
- Bacteroides
- Eubacterium
- Bifidobacterium
- Lactobacillus
- Clostridium
Yeasts
- Candida spp
- Saccharomyces spp
The REport
What the Results Provide
Results are returned as a comprehensive written report detailing the microbiology of the faecal sample - organism by organism, with quantitative data. The report supports clinical decision-making around the areas you identify, which could be some of the following
Probiotic Therapy
Identification of organisms that may benefit from targeted probiotic supplementation.
Antimicrobial Intervention
Where clinically indicated, findings may support the use of specialised antimicrobial herbs or antibiotic therapy.
Scientists from Bioscreen are always available to discuss testing results with the healthcare practitioner. As the practitioner, you must always take responsibility for patient’s care. Bioscreen does not give therapeutic advice directly to patients.
Ready to order the FMA test?
Order online 24/7, or get in touch if you want to order via phone or email. If you have questions about the test, methodology, or result interpretation, please contact our team for information.
Sample Collection
How to Collect and Send a Sample
Watch the step-by-step guide below before collecting. Written instructions are also available to download and share with your patients ahead of testing.
- Unbox (saving box & strap)
- Thoroughy review instructions
- Freeze the ice-packs
- Collect the sample
- Package & return
FMA Sample Collection Guide
Step by Step
The sample collection process is simple and easy, with clear instructions.
Sample Collection Resources
Find specific instructions for your country and postal carrier here.
FAQS
Common Questions
Browse some of the commonly asked questions about our FMA testing service. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, contact our team for assistance.
Yes. Patients can order the FMA test directly, but you must be working with a Bioscreen registered practitioner. Results are sent directly to your practitioner – not to you – so they can review your results and provide the appropriate advice.
PCR-based tests detect the presence of bacterial DNA – but DNA can remain in the gut for up to two years after the bacteria has died, which can produce misleading results. The FMA cultures living bacteria, providing accurate quantitative data on actual bacterial load. This is the key clinical distinction.
All organisms are identified using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. Bacteria are vaporised using a laser to produce a unique peptide fingerprint, allowing reliable identification of thousands of distinct bacterial species.
No. Bioscreen does not provide therapeutic advice directly to patients. Bioscreen scientists are available to consult with the ordering practitioner, who retains clinical and medicolegal responsibility for patient care.
Registered practitioners can order online 24/7, or via contacting us anytime via phone or email. Not yet registered? Complete the online registration form to get started — it takes a few minutes.