Stool Culture

Culture, Stool, Fecal Culture

Results

A stool culture is done to identify bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites that may be causing an infection. Stool culture test results usually take 2 to 3 days.

Stool culture

Normal:	No disease-causing (pathogenic) bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites are present or grow in the culture.
Abnormal:	Bacteria (such as salmonella, shigella, campylobacter, certain types of Escherichia coli [E. coli], or Yersinia enterocolitica) grow in the culture. Fungi or parasites such as Giardia lamblia are found.

 

If bacteria are found in the culture, sensitivity testing may be done to help choose the best treatment.

Go to previous section	Go to top of page	Go to next section
Author:	Monica Rhodes	Last Updated: April 11, 2008
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Peter J. Kahrilas, MD - Gastroenterology
© 1995-2009 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.