Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacterial culture and antibiotic susceptibility screening (serum/plasma)

What This Test Measures

The test involves culturing blood samples to identify *E. coli* bacteria. If bacteria are found, further testing (like antibiotic susceptibility) helps guide treatment choices. This is typically done using a blood culture method, which may take several days to complete.

Why It’s Done

Doctors order this test if you have symptoms like fever, chills, rapid heartbeat, or confusion—common signs of a blood infection. It’s also used when you’re at higher risk, such as after surgery, chemotherapy, or if you have weakened immune systems.

Sample Collection and Process

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab where it’s cultured in special growth media to detect *E. coli* and other bacteria. If bacteria are present, they’ll grow into colonies that can be identified under a microscope or tested further.

Antibiotic Sensitivity Testing

If *E. coli* is confirmed, additional testing may be done to see which antibiotics work best against it. This involves exposing the bacteria to different antibiotics and measuring how they grow or survive. This helps prevent antibiotic resistance.