How Culture and Sensitivity Urine Testing Helps in Monitoring UTI Treatment Effectiveness?

Culture and sensitivity urine testing, also referred to as urine culture test, is a diagnostic assessment that is used to evaluate a urine sample to look for germs that cause infections. Urine is your body’s liquid waste, whereas culture is the medical term that refers to the practice of growing microorganisms such as yeast and bacteria in a laboratory. A lab adds growth-promoting substances to a urine sample. If bacteria or yeast (a fungus) are present, they start multiplying. This growth indicates an infection affecting the urinary system. Read on to learn more about the urine culture test price and its role in diagnosing and treating urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Why is a Urine Culture Test Done?

Healthcare providers request urine cultures to screen for urinary tract infections. UTIs can develop when bacteria enter the urethra, which is the tube that transports urine out of the body, and typically begins in the bladder. From there, they may spread to the prostate or kidneys. A urine culture test identifies the specific bacteria or yeast causing the infection, enabling healthcare providers to choose the most appropriate treatment and determine antibiotic resistance. Additionally, it is frequently employed to assess the efficacy of UTI treatment. The urine culture test price can differ based on which diagnostic lab you choose. At Apollo 24|7, the urine culture test price is just Rs 850.

Who Needs a Urine Culture?

Your healthcare provider might order a urine culture if you experience frequent or hard-to-treat UTIs. Typically, only individuals displaying UTI symptoms require a urine culture. UTIs can affect individuals of all genders, though they are more prevalent in women. Risk factors for frequent UTIs include:

• Diabetes

• Kidney diseases, such as kidney stones

• Frequent sexual activity, particularly with new partners or when using spermicides

• Weakened immune system due to organ transplantation, autoimmune conditions, or cancer treatments

• Issues with complete bladder emptying, particularly if using a urinary catheter for drainage.

Additionally, a urine culture test may be recommended for individuals currently undergoing UTI treatment to monitor treatment effectiveness.

How is a Urine Culture Test Done?

A clean catch urine sample is required for urine culture. This means a urine sample that is as free of external contaminants as possible, such as the normal bacteria found on the skin. You may provide this sample at your healthcare provider’s clinic or a laboratory. In some cases, you may collect the urine sample at home. Here are the steps:

• Wash your hands with soap and warm water.

• Use an antiseptic wipe to thoroughly clean the opening of the urethra (the vulva and vaginal area or the head of the penis).

• Allow a small amount of urine to flow into the toilet and then stop midstream.

• Place a sterile cup under the vulva or penis before resuming urination. Ensure the cup does not touch your skin.

• Collect the required amount of urine in the cup (usually 1 to 2 ounces). Most people fill the cup before finishing urination.

• Stop midstream again (if possible) and hold the cup out of the way until you have finished urinating.

• Place the cup down, secure a lid on it (if provided), and put it in the designated collection area. Remember to wash your hands again.
   

• What Do the Results of a Urine Culture Test Mean?

A "normal growth" indicates a normal result, suggesting the absence of any infection. The normal value ranges may slightly differ amongst various laboratories. Some labs test different samples or utilise different measurements. It's advisable to discuss the interpretation of your test results with your healthcare provider. An abnormal or "positive" test occurs when yeast or bacteria are detected in the sample. This typically indicates a UTI or bladder infection. Additional tests may assist your provider in identifying which bacteria or yeast are causing the infection and determining the most effective antibiotics for treatment, if necessary. Occasionally, multiple types of bacteria, or just a small quantity, may be detected in the culture.

All in all, urine culture identifies bacteria responsible for UTIs. In case of a UTI, an antibiotic sensitivity test can identify the bacteria, aiding your healthcare provider in selecting the most effective medication. This test may also be conducted post-treatment to confirm eradication of the infection.