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Urine Culture Test explained: Learn what a urine culture is, why it’s done, how the test is performed, preparation, results, importance, and cost. Complete guide for UTI diagnosis.
What is a Urine Culture?
A Urine Culture is a laboratory test that detects the presence of bacteria, fungi, or other microorganisms in the urine. It is considered the gold standard test for diagnosing Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs). During the test, a urine sample is placed in a nutrient-rich medium, allowing microorganisms (if present) to grow. After growth, the organism is identified and tested against antibiotics to determine the most effective treatment.
Why is a Urine Culture Done?
A urine culture is recommended when a doctor suspects an infection in the urinary tract or kidneys. Some common reasons include:
Frequent urination (polyuria)
Pain or burning sensation during urination (dysuria)
Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
Blood in urine (hematuria)
Abdominal or lower back pain
High fever with chills (possible kidney infection)
Recurrent or chronic UTIs
During pregnancy, to prevent complications such as preterm labor or kidney infection
How is the Urine Culture Test Performed?
1. Sample Collection
The midstream clean-catch method is most commonly used: the first part of urine is discarded, and the middle portion is collected in a sterile container.
Before collecting the sample, wash your hands and clean the genital area thoroughly.
Avoid touching the inside of the sterile container.
For babies and children, special urine collection bags may be used.
The sample should reach the laboratory within 1–2 hours; otherwise, it must be refrigerated.
2. Laboratory Process
The urine sample is transferred to special culture media.
It is incubated for 24–48 hours at body temperature (37°C).
If microorganisms grow, they are identified under a microscope and through biochemical tests.
An Antibiotic Sensitivity Test (AST) or Drug Susceptibility Test is performed to determine which antibiotics can kill the detected bacteria.
Results of Urine Culture
Negative Result
No growth of microorganisms → No infection detected.
Positive Result
Growth of bacteria or fungi detected.
Example: Escherichia coli (E. coli), Klebsiella, Enterococcus, Proteus, Pseudomonas.
Antibiotic sensitivity report shows which antibiotics are effective.
Diseases Diagnosed by Urine Culture
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Cystitis (bladder infection)
Pyelonephritis (kidney infection)
Prostatitis (infection of the prostate gland)
Recurrent or chronic urinary infections
Preparation Before the Test
Drink water normally, but avoid excessive hydration before the test.
Inform your doctor if you are on antibiotics, as they may affect results.
Follow proper hygiene before sample collection to avoid contamination.
Women should avoid giving samples during menstruation, if possible.
Risks and Limitations
The test is safe and non-invasive.
Rarely, contamination during sample collection may give a false positive result.
Antibiotic use before the test may cause a false negative result.
Importance of Urine Culture Test
Identifies the exact microorganism responsible for infection.
Helps select the correct antibiotic, preventing misuse.
Prevents complications such as kidney damage, sepsis, or recurrent infections.
Essential for pregnant women to avoid complications for both mother and baby.
Cost of Urine Culture Test
The price of a urine culture test varies depending on the country and laboratory, but typically ranges between $10–$50. In advanced laboratories, additional charges may apply for antibiotic sensitivity testing.
Summary
The Urine Culture Test is the most reliable method for detecting urinary tract infections. By identifying the exact bacteria or fungi causing the infection and testing antibiotic sensitivity, this test ensures accurate treatment, prevents complications, and reduces the risk of antibiotic resistance.
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