Culture Stool Test
Short Name: Stool Culture
Also known as: Stool Culture Test, Bacterial Culture Stool, Stool Culture for Pathogens
Culture Stool Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹878. Uses Conventional Culture, Automated Identification, Sensitivity Testing on Stool samples. Results in Results are typically available in 3 days after sample collection.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal
Consultant Microbiologist · Reg: 27670
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The primary purpose of the Culture Stool Test is to identify pathogenic microorganisms in stool samples, enabling accurate diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal infections. It helps in detecting bacteria like Salmonella, Shigella, and E. coli, as well as viruses and parasites. By providing antibiotic sensitivity results, the test guides targeted therapy, reducing the risk of antibiotic resistance and ensuring effective patient care.
- Test Code
- 401
- Price
- ₹878
- Sample Type
- Stool
- Result Time
- Results are typically available in 3 days after sample collection.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Conventional Culture, Automated Identification, Sensitivity Testing
Sample Collection
No special preparation required. Avoid antibiotics if possible, as they may affect results.
Method: Stool Sample Collection
Laboratory Analysis
Collect a stool sample in a clean container provided. Ensure the sample does not contaminate with urine or water.
Report Delivery
Store the sample in the provided transport medium and refrigerate if not delivered immediately.
Timeline: Results are typically available in 3 days after sample collection.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The primary purpose of the Culture Stool Test is to identify pathogenic microorganisms in stool samples, enabling accurate diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal infections. It helps in detecting bacteria like Salmonella, Shigella, and E. coli, as well as viruses and parasites. By providing antibiotic sensitivity results, the test guides targeted therapy, reducing the risk of antibiotic resistance and ensuring effective patient care.
How to Prepare
- Use a clean, dry container for stool collection
- Avoid contamination with urine or toilet water
- Transfer approximately 2-5 grams of stool to the transport medium
- Seal the container tightly
- Refrigerate the sample if there is a delay in submission
- Submit the sample to the laboratory within 48 hours
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"The Culture Stool Test is essential for identifying pathogens responsible for gastrointestinal infections. It guides targeted antibiotic therapy, reducing unnecessary medication use and improving patient outcomes. Consider this test if symptoms persist or after travel to high-risk areas."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Sample contaminated with urine or other substances
- Insufficient sample volume
- Sample not in appropriate transport medium
- Sample submitted after stability period
Understanding Your Results
Positive for pathogenic bacteria
Infection detected; antibiotics may be prescribed based on sensitivity
Negative for pathogens
No infection with common bacteria, viruses, or parasites; consider other causes
Positive for parasites
Parasitic infection; antiparasitic treatment recommended
Mixed flora
Normal flora present; clinical correlation needed
No growth
No bacterial infection detected
Consult a doctor if you experience persistent diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, high fever, signs of dehydration, or if symptoms worsen after a positive test result. Also, seek medical advice for travel-related gastrointestinal issues.
Limitations
- ⚠May not detect all viral pathogens
- ⚠Results depend on sample quality
- ⚠Not suitable for detecting non-culturable organisms
- ⚠Sensitivity testing only for bacterial infections
Risks & Considerations
- ●No significant risks; stool collection is non-invasive
- ●Minimal discomfort during sample collection
Interfering Factors
- ●Recent antibiotic use
- ●Improper sample collection or storage
- ●Contamination with urine or other substances
- ●Delayed sample processing
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Culture Stool Test | Routine Stool Test | Stool for Ova and Parasites | Stool Occult Blood Test | Blood Culture |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Culture Stool Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
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