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I am currently considering a test for shigatoxin. One of the tests differentiates shigatoxin 1 and 2 and one does not. Is it clinically significant to differentiate between the two?
Thanks for your interest in ASM's Askit. Although multiple factors are necessary to make E. coli O157:H7 and related serotypes pathogenic, the presence of one or both shigatoxins (Shigatoxins 1 and 2) is required. Most O147 strains produce Shigatoxin 2, while 25-80% also produce Shigatoxin 1. As far as I know, for diagnosis and therapy of enterohemorrhagic E. coli disease, it is not necessary to know which toxin or toxins are present. We hope that we were able to answer your question. Please visit us again at the American Society for Microbiology. DISCLAIMER Askit is for general information purposes only and may not be relied upon by users for decisions or action in specific circumstances. Neither ASM nor the expert assures the accuracy or completeness of information provided. Questions are answered based on current information, which may change over time. Please note the date that a question was answered. If an answer is more than one year old, you may want to resubmit the question for an updated answer. The advice and comments do not necessarily reflect the views of ASM. ASM and INDIVIDUAL experts expressly disclaim any and all liability for any direct, indirect, or special damages or loss of any nature incurred as a consequence of use of this site or any advice or comment by any expert. By using Askit, the user accepts the waiver of claims and all terms of use of ASM’s site, including the disclaimers set forth in the “Legal Rights” link on ASM’s home page.
 
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