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Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacterial culture and antibiotic susceptibility test

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

This test checks for the presence of *Escherichia coli* bacteria in your sample and determines how your body might respond to antibiotics.

Quick summary

["Helps identify infections caused by E. coli and guides treatment choices."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
16832-8
Short code
E coli ETEC Stl Cult
Synonyms
E coli ETEC Stl Cult
Category
chemistry
Sample
stool
Container
Clean container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
organism-specific-culture
Specimen volume
5 g
Stability
Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Measures

Your sample is examined for the growth of *E. coli* bacteria. If present, the test also assesses how well your body’s defenses or prescribed antibiotics would affect these bacteria.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A sterile sample (often from urine, stool, or wound) is sent to the lab. The lab grows the sample in a controlled environment to detect bacterial growth and susceptibility patterns.

How Results Are Interpreted

Positive results indicate *E. coli* presence; negative results mean no growth. Susceptibility results show which antibiotics may or may not work effectively against the detected bacteria.

Common Uses

Used to diagnose urinary tract infections, gastrointestinal infections, or wound infections caused by *E. coli*. Helps doctors choose the best antibiotic treatment.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test is critical for diagnosing bacterial infections caused by *E. coli* and ensuring appropriate antibiotic therapy. Misidentifying the bacteria or choosing the wrong antibiotic could delay recovery or worsen infection.

Short name

E. coli Culture & Sensitivity

Frequently asked questions

Why might I need this test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fever, pain, or abnormal discharge, or if you’ve been exposed to a bacterial infection.
How long does it take to get results?
Results can take several days to a week, depending on lab processing time and antibiotic susceptibility testing.
What if my sample grows *E. coli*?
If *E. coli* is found, your doctor will review the susceptibility results to recommend the most effective antibiotic treatment for your specific case.
  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