STOOL CULTURE Detail

The Stool Culture test is performed to identify harmful bacteria or pathogenic organisms present in a stool sample that may be responsible for gastrointestinal infections. The test involves culturing the stool in a lab to check for bacteria such as Salmonella, Shigella, E. coli, Campylobacter, and others that can cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and vomiting.

This test is especially useful in patients with persistent or severe diarrhea, bloody stools, suspected food poisoning, or in cases of suspected bacterial dysentery. Once bacteria are identified, antibiotic sensitivity testing may be done to determine the most effective treatment.

It is also important for outbreak investigations, travel-related illnesses, and hospital-acquired infections.