Salivary *Salmonella* culture with selective medium (e.g., Brilliance™ Salmonella Agar)
This test checks for the presence of *Salmonella* bacteria in your saliva, which may indicate infection. It helps identify if you’ve been exposed to this type of bacteria, though it’s less common than stool tests for this purpose.
["Salivary *Salmonella* cultures can help diagnose infections linked to oral exposure, though stool is more frequently tested."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 82304-7
- Short code
- P shigelloides Stl Ql Cult
- Synonyms
- P shigelloides Stl Ql Cult
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- stool
- Container
- Clean container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- culture
- Specimen volume
- 5 g
- Stability
- Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like persistent mouth sores, unexplained fever, or signs of gastrointestinal infection after potential exposure to *Salmonella*—such as from contaminated food or water. It’s also used in research or specialized settings where oral exposure is suspected.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a saliva sample (like spitting into a cup) during a routine visit. Avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes before if instructed, as food/drinks could dilute results.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare worker will collect your saliva sample. The sample is then cultured on a special medium to grow *Salmonella* bacteria, if present. Results take 2–7 days, depending on lab methods.
What the Results Mean
A positive result means *Salmonella* was detected in your saliva. This could indicate an active infection, though symptoms may not yet appear. A negative result means no bacteria were found in this sample. Repeat testing (e.g., stool) may be needed for confirmation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Salivary *Salmonella* screening
Frequently asked questions
If *Salmonella* is found in saliva, it may signal an oral infection—less common than gastrointestinal *Salmonella* infections—but can still require treatment (e.g., antibiotics). Early detection helps prevent spread or complications. Salivary cultures are rarely used alone; they’re often part of broader diagnostic workups.
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
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