Bacteriaurthcult
A laboratory test that identifies and grows bacteria from a urethral sample to diagnose infections.
{"This test detects bacteria in the urethra that may cause infection","It helps diagnose urinary tract infections and sexually transmitted infections","Results typically take 2-5 days as bacteria need time to grow","A positive result helps doctors choose the right antibiotic treatment"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 10354-9
- Short code
- URETHRC
- Synonyms
- Bacteria Urth Cult
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile bacterial culture swab transport system (e.g., Amies or Stuart transport medium); sterile screw-cap container for urine or discharge
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- culture
- CPT
- 87086
- SNOMED
- 115851000220109
- Specimen volume
- Minimum 1 swab or 0.5 mL of urethral discharge in transport medium
- Stability
- Room temperature: 24 hours in transport medium; refrigerated (2-8°C): 48 hours; should be processed as soon as possible, ideally within 2 hours of collection
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 48–168 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The Bacteria Identified in Urethra by Culture test is a laboratory procedure that collects a sample from your urethra (the tube that carries urine from your bladder) and places it in a special environment to grow and identify any bacteria present. This test helps doctors determine if you have an infection and exactly what type of bacteria is causing it.
During the test, a healthcare provider will use a sterile swab to collect a small sample from your urethra. This sample is then sent to a laboratory where it is placed in culture media that allows bacteria to grow. If bacteria are present, they will multiply over several days, allowing laboratory technicians to identify the specific type.
Reference range
No growth of pathogenic bacteria; normal urethral flora may be present. Report identifies isolated organisms with colony counts when clinically significant.N/A
Patient should not have urinated for at least 1 hour prior to specimen collection. The periurethral area should be cleaned. Avoid contamination with skin flora. Discontinue topical antimicrobial agents for 48-72 hours prior to collection if possible. Sexual intercourse should be avoided for 24 hours prior to collection.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings2
Frequently asked questions
Does the test hurt?
How long does it take to get results?
Do I need to prepare for the test?
What happens if my test is positive?
Is this test only for sexually transmitted infections?
Sources
- 1
- 2Mayo Clinic - UrethritisSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy