Saliva Shigella and *Escherichia coli* O157:H7 Culture with Antibiotic Susceptibility Testing
This test checks for the presence of *Shigella* bacteria or *E. coli* O157:H7 in your saliva, which may indicate an infection. It also helps determine if antibiotics would be effective.
["A culture test can help diagnose certain bacterial infections in the mouth or throat and guide antibiotic treatment."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 43371-4
- Short code
- Salm + Shig Stl Cult
- Synonyms
- Salm + Shig Stl Cult
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- stool
- Container
- Clean container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- organism-specific-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 sore throat, mouth ulcers, or unexplained fever that could suggest a bacterial infection caused by *Shigella* or *E. coli* O157:H7. It may also be used in research or outbreak investigations.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may rinse your mouth with water before providing a saliva sample to avoid contamination. Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking for at least 30 minutes before testing.
How the Test Works
A small sample of saliva is collected and placed on a special growth medium to encourage bacterial growth. Over several days, the lab checks for the presence of *Shigella* or *E. coli* O157:H7. If bacteria are found, they are tested for antibiotic resistance.
Possible Results and Next Steps
If bacteria are detected, your healthcare provider will discuss further steps, such as starting antibiotics or additional testing. If no bacteria are found, it may not rule out other causes of your symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results for *Shigella* or *E. coli* O157:H7 in saliva can confirm a bacterial infection that may require specific treatments. Antibiotic susceptibility testing helps ensure the right medication is chosen to treat the infection effectively, reducing the risk of antibiotic resistance.
Short name
Saliva Culture for Bacterial Infections
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I take antibiotics before knowing the 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