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Escherichia coli DNA in Urine (Quantitative)

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

This test measures the presence of genetic material from *Escherichia coli* bacteria in your urine, which can help identify infections caused by this common gut bacterium.

Quick summary

["Detecting E. coli DNA helps diagnose urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by this bacterium."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
106588-7
Short code
E coli DNA Fld Ql NAA+n-prb
Synonyms
E coli DNA Fld Ql NAA+n-prb
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
non-probe-amp-tar
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

Why This Test Matters

E. coli is a frequent cause of urinary tract infections (UTIs), which can cause pain, frequent urination, or a strong urge to urinate. This test helps confirm whether the infection is caused by E. coli rather than other bacteria or conditions.

How the Test Works

Your urine sample is analyzed to detect specific DNA fragments unique to *E. coli*. This method is highly sensitive and can identify the bacterium even if it’s present in low numbers.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may be asked to collect a midstream urine sample, often done during a routine urinalysis or as part of a diagnostic workup for symptoms like burning during urination or frequent urges.

Possible Results and Next Steps

A positive result means *E. coli* DNA was found, strongly suggesting a UTI caused by this bacterium. Your healthcare provider may recommend antibiotics to treat the infection. A negative result means no *E. coli* DNA was detected, but other causes of UTI symptoms (like yeast infections or other bacteria) could still be present.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

E. coli DNA in urine

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result strongly indicates a urinary tract infection caused by *E. coli*, which is the most common bacterial cause of UTIs. This test helps guide treatment decisions, ensuring you receive targeted antibiotics if needed.
Could a negative result mean I don’t have a UTI?
Not necessarily. While a negative result means no *E. coli* DNA was detected, other bacteria or non-bacterial causes (like kidney stones, interstitial cystitis, or yeast infections) could still explain your symptoms. Follow-up testing or additional evaluation may be needed.
Is this test more accurate than a urine culture?
Yes, this test is often more sensitive than traditional urine cultures because it detects bacterial DNA rather than live bacteria. However, a urine culture remains the gold standard for confirming bacterial identity and antibiotic resistance patterns, so your provider may recommend both tests depending on your situation.
  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