Assessing the microbiome is a complex, laboratory-based process. Doctors cannot effectively assess the microbiome by asking the patient questions or by findings on a physical examination.  To effectively assess the intestinal microbiome a stool sample needs to be collected and processed in the laboratory so that the molecular and genetic characteristics of the bacteria in the sample can be determined.  To determine which bacteria are in the sample from the intestine the laboratory will determine the genetic characteristics of each of the bacteria.  We are also beginning a study that will be investigating the oral microbiome by collecting saliva samples and samples from around the teeth and gums as we suspect that the oral microbiome might have some influence on juvenile arthritis.  We don’t know if the oral microbiome might be associated with uveitis but our study should help improve understanding of this possible connection.