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Citrobacter rodentium (or similar *Proteus*-like organism) in feces by culture

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

This test checks for the presence of certain bacteria in your stool that may cause infections, often linked to gastrointestinal issues.

Quick summary

["It helps identify possible bacterial infections that could require treatment."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
75675-9
Short code
Deprecated Citrobac sp ompA+mrkC Bld Pos Ql Prb Mag
Synonyms
Deprecated Citrobac sp ompA+mrkC Bld Pos Ql Prb Mag
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
probe-mag-capture
Specimen volume
3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, or other signs of a gastrointestinal infection. It’s also used when you’ve had recent contact with someone who has a bacterial infection or if you’ve been exposed to contaminated food or water.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to collect a fresh stool sample in a sterile container. Avoid using toilet paper or cleaning agents in the sample.

How the Test Works

A small amount of your stool is mixed with a special growth medium in a lab setting. Bacteria, if present, will grow and multiply over several days, allowing healthcare providers to identify specific types of bacteria.

Possible Results and Next Steps

If bacteria are found, your provider will determine the best course of action, which may include prescribing antibiotics or other treatments. If no bacteria are detected, further testing or observation may be recommended depending on your symptoms.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Fecal bacterial culture (gram-negative rod)

Frequently asked questions

Identifying the correct bacteria helps guide treatment decisions. Some infections may require specific antibiotics, and knowing the cause can prevent future outbreaks or spread to others.
This test is crucial for diagnosing infections that might not be obvious from symptoms alone, especially in cases where other tests (like stool cultures for *Salmonella* or *Shigella*) have not provided a clear answer.
FAQ: What if I have diarrhea but no bacteria are found?
Diarrhea can have many causes, including viruses, parasites, or even stress. If your symptoms persist, your provider may recommend additional tests, such as a viral stool panel or a parasite test.
FAQ: Can I take antibiotics before the test?
If you’re prescribed antibiotics, it’s important to tell your healthcare provider before the test. Antibiotics can change the bacteria in your stool and affect the results.
  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