Skip to content

Saliva Shigella Culture (Qualitative)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test checks for the presence of *Shigella* bacteria in your saliva, which can indicate infection with this gastrointestinal pathogen.

Quick summary

["A positive result may suggest possible shigellosis, but further testing may be needed for confirmation."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
103662-3
Short code
CSSY CULT
Synonyms
Camp, Sal, Shig,Yers sp Stl Cult
Category
chemistry
Sample
stool
Container
Sterile, wide-mouth, leak-proof container with tight-fitting lid; Cary-Blair transport medium recommended for delayed transport
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
4
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 0 years
Method
organism-specific-culture
CPT
87045
SNOMED
39214005
Specimen volume
5-10 grams (approximately 1-2 teaspoons) of fresh stool; a walnut-sized portion is sufficient
Stability
Room temperature: 1-2 hours; refrigerated (2-8°C): up to 24 hours in transport medium; Cary-Blair transport medium: up to 48-72 hours refrigerated
TAT
48–96 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Doctors may order a saliva Shigella culture if you have symptoms like diarrhea, fever, abdominal pain, or blood in your stool. It can also be used in outbreaks or when other tests are inconclusive. This test helps identify if *Shigella* is causing an infection in your digestive system.

How the Test Works

A small sample of your saliva is collected and sent to a lab. The sample is cultured to grow *Shigella* bacteria, if present. The lab then checks for bacterial growth to determine if infection is likely.

Sample Collection and Preparation

You’ll likely be asked to rinse your mouth with water and spit into a sterile container. The sample is then processed and sent to a lab for culture and identification.

What to Expect After the Test

Results may take several days to a week, depending on lab processing. You’ll receive a qualitative result (positive or negative) indicating whether *Shigella* was detected.

Reference range

Normal: <4.0 ng/mLN/A

Specimen: stool

No fasting required. Patient should collect stool sample before starting antibiotic therapy when possible. Avoid mixing stool with urine or toilet water. Specimen should be collected during the acute phase of diarrhea (within the first 4 days of symptom onset) for optimal recovery of pathogens.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Saliva Shigella Culture

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result suggests *Shigella* bacteria are present in your saliva, which may indicate an active infection. This can cause symptoms like severe diarrhea, cramping, fever, and dehydration. Treatment may include antibiotics, but hydration and rest are also key.
What does a negative result mean?
A negative result means *Shigella* was not detected in your saliva sample. However, symptoms may still be present due to other causes, so further evaluation may be needed. Follow-up testing or a different specimen (like stool) might be recommended.
Can I take antibiotics before the test?
It’s best to avoid antibiotics unless prescribed by your doctor, as they may affect the test results. If you’ve already taken antibiotics, inform your healthcare provider before scheduling the test.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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