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Escherichia coli (E. coli) in Stool - Culture and Sensitivity (C&S)

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

This test checks for the presence of *Escherichia coli* bacteria in your stool, which can help identify infections caused by this common gut bacterium.

Quick summary

["A positive result may indicate a bacterial infection requiring medical attention."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
32777-5
Short code
E coli O157H7 Ag Stl Ql
Synonyms
E coli O157H7 Ag Stl Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
stool
Container
Clean container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 g
Stability
Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like diarrhea (especially with blood or pus), stomach pain, fever, or if you’ve recently traveled to an area with poor sanitation. It’s also used to diagnose food poisoning, urinary tract infections, or other infections linked to E. coli exposure.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may be asked to collect a stool sample in a clean container, often provided by your lab. Avoid using toilet paper or cleaning agents in the sample.

What Happens During the Test

The sample is sent to a lab where it’s cultured to grow *E. coli* bacteria (if present). Sensitivity testing follows to determine antibiotic resistance patterns, if needed. Results can take days to weeks depending on the lab’s process.

What the Results Mean

A positive result means *E. coli* was found in your stool. The sensitivity report (if provided) will show which antibiotics might work best against the identified strain. A negative result means no *E. coli* was detected, but other causes of symptoms should still be evaluated.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

E. coli Stool Culture

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result suggests an infection caused by *E. coli*, which can lead to symptoms like severe diarrhea, dehydration, or even more serious complications (e.g., kidney failure) in some cases. Treatment may include antibiotics (if appropriate) and fluids to prevent dehydration. Always follow your provider’s advice.
What if I have mild symptoms?
If your symptoms are mild and self-limiting (e.g., watery diarrhea), your provider may recommend rest, fluids, and monitoring. Severe symptoms (e.g., high fever, bloody stools, or signs of dehydration) warrant immediate medical attention, as *E. coli* infections can sometimes require hospitalization.
Can I get this test at home?
No, this test requires a lab sample. You’ll need to collect the stool sample in a sterile container and bring it to your healthcare provider’s office or lab for processing.
  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