Microbiological urine culture (with antibiotic susceptibility testing)
This test checks for bacteria in your urine and helps determine which antibiotics could treat any infection.
["A urine culture helps identify infections and guide treatment options."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 49967-3
- Short code
- UCHAR
- Synonyms
- Charcoal UrnS Ql Micro
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile, screw-capped, leak-proof urine collection container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- microscopy-light
- CPT
- 81015
- SNOMED
- 167226006
- Specimen volume
- 10-50 mL
- Stability
- 1 hour at room temperature; up to 4 hours refrigerated at 2-8°C
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 1–4 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is a Urine Culture Used For?
A urine culture helps diagnose urinary tract infections (UTIs) by detecting bacteria in your urine. It also provides information on which antibiotics might be most effective for treating the infection, if one exists.
How Is the Test Performed?
A small urine sample is collected in a sterile container. The sample is then sent to a lab where bacteria are grown in a controlled environment to identify and count them. If bacteria are found, additional testing may be done to see how they respond to different antibiotics.
When Might You Need This Test?
You may need a urine culture if you have symptoms like frequent urination, pain or burning during urination, cloudy or strong-smelling urine, or if you’ve been diagnosed with a UTI or other urinary issues. Doctors may also order it before certain procedures or if you have recurring infections.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications that could affect results. Drink plenty of water the day before to help flush out your urinary system.
Reference range
Negative (charcoal particles not normally present in urine sediment)N/A
No fasting required. Patient should follow standard midstream clean-catch urine collection technique to minimize contamination. Avoid collection after recent oral or topical exposure to charcoal-containing substances.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Urine Culture
Frequently asked questions
Why do I need this test if I only have mild symptoms?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I drink alcohol before the test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 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