Microbiology Test

Stool culture

Written by Dr. Reeja Tharu, M.Phil.,Ph.D

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Simi Paknikar, MD

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Test : Stool culture

Indications : Screen for pathogenic bacterial organisms in the stool, diagnose typhoid fever, enteric fever, bacillary dysentery, salmonella infection.

Physiology : Diarrhea is common in patients with AIDS. It is frequently caused by the classic bacterial pathogens, as well as, unusual opportunistic bacterial pathogens and parasitic infestation. Indications for stool culture are bloody diarrhea, fever, tenesmus, severe or persistent symptoms, bacterial infection, presence of fecal leukocytes.

Normal Range : Negative for pathogens

Sample : stool, rectal swab

Test Method : Aerobic culture on selective media.

References :

1. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003758.htm