Culture, Stool

A normal stool culture shows no enteric pathogens — only non‑pathogenic (commensal) gut flora such as non‑pathogenic E. coli, Bacteroides and Enterococcus — or is reported as "no significant growth" or "no pathogenic organisms isolated." Results are qualitative rather than numeric and interpreted with clinical context; isolation of Salmonella, Shigella, Campylobacter, pathogenic E. coli, or Vibrio is abnormal.

Stool samples can detect bacterial infections (Salmonella, Shigella, Campylobacter, pathogenic E. coli, Clostridioides difficile), parasitic infections (Giardia, Entamoeba histolytica, Cryptosporidium, helminths), viral causes (norovirus, rotavirus), inflammatory conditions (inflammatory bowel disease via calprotectin), gastrointestinal bleeding or colorectal cancer (occult blood/FIT), and malabsorption or pancreatic insufficiency (fecal elastase). Results help guide treatment, infection control, and public health measures.

A positive stool culture means a pathogenic organism was grown, confirming an infectious cause of diarrhoea. The lab identifies the microbe and may report antibiotic sensitivities; treatment is guided accordingly (targeted antibiotics when indicated) alongside fluids and electrolyte support. Public-health measures—improved hygiene, exclusion from food handling, and possible notification—and follow-up testing or specialist care are recommended for severe or persistent cases.

Costs vary widely by country and lab. In the US, out‑of‑pocket costs commonly range from about $20 to $200 (insurance can lower copays). In India, private labs typically charge roughly ₹300–₹1,500. In the UK, stool cultures are usually provided free through the NHS when requested by a clinician. Final price depends on location, lab type and added tests like PCR or ova/parasite exams.

Yes. Stool culture can detect many bacterial gastrointestinal infections (e.g., Salmonella, Shigella, Campylobacter, pathogenic E. coli) but it won’t identify most viruses and may miss some pathogens without special tests. Some organisms or toxins need targeted assays (PCR, toxin tests, ova & parasite exams). Results usually take 24–72 hours; clinicians choose tests based on symptoms, exposure, and severity.

Check patient/specimen details and collection time, then review microscopic findings (white blood cells, red blood cells, ova/cysts/trophozoites). Look at culture results: organisms isolated listed as pathogenic or normal flora. Review antimicrobial susceptibility (antibiogram) to guide therapy. Note comments about contamination or need for repeat testing. Correlate results with symptoms and physician recommendations before starting treatment.