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Clostridium perfringens stool culture (qualitative)

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

This test checks for the presence of *Clostridium perfringens*, a bacterium that can cause food poisoning or other gastrointestinal infections. It involves examining a sample of your stool to see if the germ is growing.

Quick summary

["A positive result may indicate recent exposure to this bacteria, which can lead to symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, or abdominal pain."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
77496-8
Short code
C perfringens Spec Ql Cult
Synonyms
C perfringens Spec Ql Cult
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
organism-specific-culture
CPT
86430
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Measures

This test detects whether *Clostridium perfringens* bacteria are present in your stool. It does not measure how many bacteria are present, only whether they are growing in the lab. The result is qualitative—meaning it’s either positive (bacteria found) or negative (no bacteria found).

Why It’s Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like severe diarrhea, vomiting, or abdominal cramps that suggest a bacterial infection. It’s also used in certain outbreaks or when investigating foodborne illness.

Sample Collection

You’ll need to provide a fresh stool sample (usually collected in a special container) for this test. The sample is sent to a lab, where it’s cultured to see if *Clostridium perfringens* grows over time.

Test Results Interpretation

A positive result means the lab found *Clostridium perfringens* in your stool. This could mean you recently ate contaminated food or had contact with the bacteria. A negative result means no bacteria were detected in this sample.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

C. perfringens stool culture

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result suggests you may have ingested *Clostridium perfringens*, which can cause symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal pain, or nausea within 6 to 24 hours. This is a common cause of food poisoning. Your doctor may recommend hydration, rest, and possibly antibiotics if symptoms persist.
What does a negative result mean?
A negative result means no *Clostridium perfringens* was found in this sample, but it doesn’t rule out other possible causes of your symptoms. Other bacteria, viruses, or conditions could be causing your illness.
How soon will I get my results?
Results typically take 2 to 5 business days. Your doctor will explain the meaning of your result and next steps during your follow-up visit.
  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