Escherichia coli (E. coli) culture and sensitivity (C&S) from stool sample
This test checks for the presence of harmful bacteria, including *Escherichia coli*, in your stool and determines how your body might respond to treatment.
["Identifies bacterial infections in your digestive system and guides antibiotic choices."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 44090-9
- Short code
- E coli O157H7 Islt Ql Cult
- Synonyms
- E coli O157H7 Islt Ql Cult
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- organism-specific-culture
- 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 Is Done
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like diarrhea (especially with blood or mucus), stomach pain, fever, or signs of infection after eating contaminated food. It’s also used to diagnose conditions like traveler’s diarrhea, urinary tract infections (UTIs), or food poisoning caused by bacteria like E. coli.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to collect a fresh stool sample in a clean container. Avoid using toilet paper or cleaning products that could alter the sample. If you’re on antibiotics, let your doctor know—it may affect results.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare provider will collect your stool sample. The lab will then grow the bacteria in a controlled environment to identify any present and determine their antibiotic resistance patterns.
Results and Next Steps
Results typically take 2–5 business days. You’ll receive a report listing any bacteria found and their sensitivity to antibiotics. Follow your doctor’s advice on treatment based on the results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Stool C&S
Frequently asked questions
This test helps confirm infections caused by harmful bacteria like E. coli, which can lead to serious illnesses if untreated. It also guides antibiotic use to prevent resistance and reduce side effects.
Results usually arrive within 2 to 5 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your doctor will contact you if results are urgent or if immediate action is needed.
Yes, you can eat and drink normally before the test. Avoid using toilet paper or cleaning agents that might alter the sample, and ensure the container is clean for accurate results.
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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