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Stool Culture and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (Qualitative, Probe-Based)

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

This test checks for bacteria in your stool and determines which, if any, antibiotics could effectively treat an infection.

Quick summary

["Identifies potential infections and guides antibiotic choices for better treatment."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
76579-2
Short code
E faecium sodA Swab Ql NAA+probe
Synonyms
E faecium sodA Swab Ql NAA+probe
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
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

What Is Stool Culture Used For?

Stool culture helps diagnose gastrointestinal infections caused by bacteria. It also supports determining the best antibiotic to treat any detected bacteria, reducing unnecessary prescriptions and side effects.

How Is the Test Performed?

A sterile swab is collected from your stool sample to capture bacteria. The swab is then sent to a lab where it’s cultured to grow bacteria, if present, and tested for antibiotic resistance patterns.

What Are Common Findings?

If bacteria are detected, the lab will identify the type and report antibiotic susceptibility results. Common bacteria include *Escherichia coli*, *Salmonella*, or *Shigella*, among others. Results may also indicate no bacterial growth if no infection is present.

How Long Until Results Are Ready?

Results typically take 3–7 days, depending on the lab’s processing time. Some labs may provide preliminary findings sooner, but final susceptibility testing may take longer.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Why It Matters

Short name

Stool Culture with Antibiotic Sensitivity

Frequently asked questions

Why might my doctor order this test?
Your doctor may recommend stool culture if you have symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, or blood in your stool. It helps confirm bacterial infections and ensures antibiotics are chosen to treat the specific bacteria causing the issue.
What if my stool culture comes back negative?
A negative result means no bacteria were detected in the sample. However, other causes of diarrhea (like viruses, parasites, or food intolerances) could still be the issue. Your doctor may suggest additional tests or different approaches.
How can I prepare for this test?
No special preparation is needed. Collect a fresh stool sample in a clean container, and bring it to your appointment. Avoid using toilet paper or cleaning agents in the sample.
  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