Staphylococcus species, commonly found in the gastrointestinal tract, are a diverse group of bacteria. Some species are harmless and part of the normal gut flora, while others, like Staphylococcus aureus, can be pathogenic. The presence of Staphylococcus in the gut microbiome is a natural occurrence, but an overgrowth may indicate an imbalance or potential infection. Scientifically, their role in the GI tract is complex, as they can interact with the immune system and impact gut health. Elevated levels of pathogenic Staphylococcus species in the GI tract require careful clinical evaluation, as they might be linked to various health conditions, including food poisoning and intestinal infections. Treatment approaches depend on the specific Staphylococcus species identified and the overall health context.

The marker "Staphylococcus species" on a Gut Zoomer panel by Vibrant Wellness refers to a group of bacteria included in the extensive testing to assess the health and diversity of an individual's gut microbiome. Staphylococcus is a genus of bacteria, some species of which are harmless and naturally reside in the human body, including the skin and nasal passages, while others can be pathogenic and cause infections. In the context of the Gut Zoomer panel, the presence, absence, or abundance of Staphylococcus species helps provide insights into the microbial balance within the gut. A balanced gut microbiome is crucial for digestive health, immune function, and overall well-being. An overgrowth of pathogenic Staphylococcus species could potentially lead to undesirable symptoms and may indicate an imbalance in gut flora or an increased risk for certain health conditions. Conversely, the normal presence of non-pathogenic Staphylococcus species can be a part of a healthy gut microbiome.

Gram-positive bacteria in the Firmicutes phylum. High levels may result from reduced digestive capacity, and intestinal inflammatory activity. Some strains may produce toxins and contribute to loose stools or diarrhea.

Stearic acid is a saturated fatty acid that is two carbon atoms longer than palmitic acid.

Stearic acid is a saturated fatty acid that is two carbon atoms longer than palmitic acid.

Stearic acid is a saturated fatty acid that is two carbon atoms longer than palmitic acid.

Stearic acid (SA) is a saturated fatty acid with an 18-carbon backbone (18:0). Although it is mainly abundant in animal fat, cocoa butter and shea butter are also very high in SA. It is also commonly used in detergents, soaps, cosmetics, shampoos, and shaving cream. Additionally, it can be synthesized in the body from palmitic acid. SA is not a strong substrate to make triglycerides compared to other saturated fatty acids and it generates a lower lipemic response.

The stearic acid/oleic acid ratio from red blood cells is a marker for the presence of malignant tissue, particularly with prostate cancer. In tumors, the net result of changes in fatty acid metabolism is low stearic acid and high oleic acid, causing a profound shift in the ratio of stearic to oleic acids. One likely outcome of this shift is increased fluidity of the tumor cell membrane, resulting in more rapid movement of nutrients and waste products and allowing for faster metabolic rate. The stearic/oleic ratio is used to monitor the effectiveness of cancer therapy.

Values below 1.1 are associated with malignancy. 

The stearic acid/oleic acid ratio from red blood cells is a marker for the presence of malignant tissue, particularly with prostate cancer. In tumors, the net result of changes in fatty acid metabolism is low stearic acid and high oleic acid, causing a profound shift in the ratio of stearic to oleic acids. One likely outcome of this shift is increased fluidity of the tumor cell membrane, resulting in more rapid movement of nutrients and waste products and allowing for faster metabolic rate. The stearic/oleic ratio is used to monitor the effectiveness of cancer therapy.

Values below 1.1 are associated with malignancy. 

The steatocrit is a measure of the amount of fat in stool.

Steatocrit is a diagnostic test specifically designed to measure the fat content in feces, offering a non-invasive method to evaluate fat malabsorption. This condition, where fats are not properly absorbed by the intestines, can lead to various gastrointestinal disorders, including steatorrhea (the excretion of abnormal quantities of fat with the feces), which is indicative of issues such as pancreatic insufficiency, celiac disease, Crohn's disease, or other conditions affecting the bile ducts or small intestine.

This mold is a well-known plant pathogen, and may be found growing on a wide range of vegetables including tomato, lettuce, beans, pea, etc.

The Allergen Stemphylium Botryosum (m10) IgE test is a laboratory test used to detect the presence of specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies to the mold Stemphylium botryosum. IgE antibodies are produced by the immune system in response to exposure to allergens, including molds.

Together with Alternaria, Stemphylium is considered one of the most important mould allergens in the United States.

Sterigmatocystin (STG) is a mycotoxin that is closely related to aflatoxin. STG is produced from several species of mold such as Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Bipolaris. It is considered to be carcinogenic, particularly in the cells of the GI tract and liver. STG has been found in the dust from damp carpets.

Stomatocytes are a unique type of red blood cells (RBCs) characterized by their distinct mouth-like shape, playing a significant role in the field of hematology and medical diagnostics. These cells, identifiable under a microscope, present with a central, slit-like area devoid of hemoglobin, giving them their characteristic appearance. The presence of stomatocytes in a blood smear is a key indicator in diagnosing various hematological disorders, including hereditary stomatocytosis, a rare condition affecting the membrane of red blood cells.