A RealTime PCR based multiplex assay to detect 18 gastrointestinal pathogens: diagnosis within 2.5 hours! Infections of the gastrointestinal tract are responsible for high mortality rate in children of the third world and are an increasing threat to elderly people in the developed world. A specific diagnosis would help to start the right treatment but would also help to control and prevent the distribution of extremely contagious pathogens. The GastroFinder® 2SMART is a multiplex PCR assay for the simultaneous detection and differentiation of 18 gastrointestinal pathogens within 2.5 hours, with the same sensitivity and specificity as monoplex Real Time PCR. Fast and comprehensive diagnosis will improve therapy and assist in the prevention of unnecessary use of antibiotics or hospital admissions.