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Shigella bacterial culture with selective media (stool sample)

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

This test helps detect the presence of *Shigella* bacteria, which can cause severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, and dehydration. It’s used to confirm an infection after symptoms like bloody stools or prolonged diarrhea.

Quick summary

["A stool culture can confirm if you have a *Shigella* infection and guide treatment choices."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
20964-3
Short code
Shigella Feed Cult
Synonyms
Shigella Feed 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 is this test done?

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like watery or bloody diarrhea, severe stomach cramps, fever, or dehydration—especially if you’ve traveled to areas with higher infection risks. It’s also used in outbreaks or when other causes of diarrhea aren’t clear.

How is the test performed?

A sample of your stool is collected in a clean container. The lab then grows the bacteria in a controlled environment with special media that encourage *Shigella* growth. Results may take 2–5 days, depending on the lab’s methods.

What does a positive result mean?

A positive result means *Shigella* bacteria were found in your stool. This confirms an infection and helps your doctor choose antibiotics (if needed) or other treatments to ease symptoms and prevent spreading the infection.

What does a negative result mean?

A negative result means *Shigella* wasn’t detected in your sample. However, symptoms could still be caused by other bacteria, viruses, or conditions. Follow-up testing or other diagnostic steps may be needed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Shigella stool culture

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results?
Results typically arrive within 2–5 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your doctor will contact you once they’re ready, but delays can happen due to lab workload or sample quality.
What if I have mild diarrhea but no other symptoms?
Mild diarrhea alone often isn’t tested for *Shigella* unless you have other concerning symptoms (like blood in stool, high fever, or severe dehydration). If your doctor suspects a bacterial cause, they may recommend this test or another stool study.
Can I take antibiotics before the test?
Yes, but it’s best to avoid antibiotics unless prescribed by your doctor. If you’ve already taken them, inform your lab before the test—this may affect results. Antibiotics can kill *Shigella*, making detection harder.
  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