Clostridioides difficile toxin A and B test
Quick answer: This stool test checks for toxins A and B made by Clostridioides difficile, bacteria that can cause severe diarrhoea. Doctors order it when you have diarrhoea during or after antibiotics or a hospital stay.
- SampleStool
- TakesOnly the time it takes to collect a sample
- Before the testCollect a fresh, loose stool sample in the container given, as formed stool is not usually tested.
How the test is done
- 1You are given a clean stool container and a scoop
- 2Pass stool into a clean, dry pan or onto paper, not into water
- 3Scoop a loose sample into the container without urine
- 4Close it, label it and hand it in promptly
What your results can mean
Reading your report
The report usually says positive, negative or borderline; a positive result often needs a confirmatory test, so discuss it with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A positive result can point to C. difficile infection, which can cause watery diarrhoea and colitis, often after antibiotics. A negative result makes it less likely, though repeat testing is rarely helpful.
Who usually has this test
People with three or more loose stools a day during or after antibiotics, a hospital stay, or with weak immunity.
Risks and aftercare
No risks from the test; wash hands with soap and water, as hand gel does not kill C. difficile spores.
Names and options
Also called: C. diff toxin, C difficile test, CDT
Listed by the hospital as
- CLOSTRIDIUM DIFFICILE TOXIN A&B
Questions about this test
Why is only loose stool tested for C. difficile?
C. difficile infection causes diarrhoea. Testing formed stool can pick up people who simply carry the bacteria without illness.
Can C. difficile spread to my family?
Yes, its spores spread on hands and surfaces. Washing hands with soap and water and cleaning toilets well helps prevent spread.
What happens if my test is positive?
Your doctor will usually review your antibiotics and may give a specific treatment. Do not stop or change any medicine on your own.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.