Limbic 365Stool culture is a diagnostic test that examines a stool sample for the presence of bacteria, viruses, and parasites. The test is typically ordered when a patient experiences symptoms of gastrointestinal infection, such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Stool culture can help identify the cause of the infection and guide appropriate treatment.
What Happens During a Stool Culture Test?
To perform a stool culture test, a healthcare provider will ask the patient to provide a small sample of stool in a sterile container. The sample will be sent to a laboratory, where technicians will culture the stool on different types of media to identify different types of microorganisms.
The test typically takes several days to produce results. In some cases, additional tests may be necessary to identify the specific type of microorganism causing the infection.
Why is Stool Culture Done?
Stool culture is done to diagnose gastrointestinal infections, which can be caused by a variety of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Common symptoms of gastrointestinal infections include diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
In addition to diagnosing infections, stool culture can also help monitor the effectiveness of treatment and identify potential complications.
What are Normal Ranges?
The results of a stool culture test are typically reported as “positive” or “negative” for the presence of microorganisms. A positive result means that microorganisms were found in the stool sample, while a negative result means that no microorganisms were found.
In some cases, the laboratory may also report the number of microorganisms present in the stool sample. The normal ranges for bacterial growth in stool culture are:
| Bacteria | Normal Range |
|---|---|
| Escherichia coli (E. coli) | Less than 10^5 colony-forming units |
| Salmonella | Not detected |
| Shigella | Not detected |
| Campylobacter | Not detected |
It is important to note that these ranges may vary depending on the laboratory performing the test and the specific methods used.
How do I prepare for a stool culture test?
Generally, no special preparation is needed for a stool culture test. However, your healthcare provider may give you specific instructions depending on your situation.
Is a stool culture painful?
No, a stool culture is a non-invasive test and is not painful.
How long does it take to get results from a stool culture test?
Stool culture results can take several days to a week to come back, depending on the laboratory performing the test and the specific methods used.
In conclusion, stool culture is an important diagnostic test for identifying gastrointestinal infections. The test is simple, non-invasive, and can provide important information for guiding appropriate treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms of gastrointestinal infection, talk to your healthcare provider about whether a stool culture test may be right for you.
Reference:
“Stool Culture.” Lab Tests Online, American Association for Clinical Chemistry, labtestsonline.org/tests/stool-culture.
“Stool Culture.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 17 May 2019, mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/stool-culture/about/pac-20384672.
