Multiplex STEC

Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) represents a major foodborne pathogen causing severe diarrheal disease and potentially life-threatening systemic complications worldwide. Multiple STEC serotypes exist, with O157:H7 being the most clinically significant and commonly associated with severe disease, hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), and fatal outcomes, particularly in children. Non-O157 STEC serotypes including O26, O103, O111, O145, and O165 also cause serious disease but are historically underdetected due to laboratory methods designed primarily for O157 detection. STEC produces Shiga toxins (Stx1 and/or Stx2) causing endothelial cell damage, hemorrhagic colitis, and renal failure.