Urine Culture & Sensitivity (C&S) Test

The Urine Culture & Sensitivity (C&S) test detects bacterial or fungal infections in the urinary tract and determines the most effective antibiotics for treatment. It is commonly used to diagnose urinary tract infections (UTIs) and guide appropriate antibiotic therapy.

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Why is the Urine Culture & Sensitivity Test Done?

Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms of a UTI, such as:
✅ Burning sensation during urination (dysuria)
✅ Frequent or urgent urination
✅ Cloudy, foul-smelling, or bloody urine
✅ Lower abdominal or back pain
✅ Fever or chills (if infection has spread to the kidneys)

It is also used in:
🔹 Recurrent UTIs to identify persistent infections
🔹 Pregnant women to screen for asymptomatic infections
🔹 People with kidney disease, diabetes, or immune disorders

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How is the Test Done?

1️⃣ Urine Sample Collection

• A midstream, clean-catch urine sample is collected in a sterile container.
• Catheterized urine sample may be required for hospitalized patients.
  2️⃣ Lab Analysis
• The sample is placed on a culture medium to grow bacteria (if present).
• Bacteria are identified, and their antibiotic sensitivity is tested.
  3️⃣ Results Interpretation
• Usually available within 24–48 hours.

🚫 Pre-Test Instructions

• Avoid antibiotics before the test unless prescribed.
• Drink plenty of water before sample collection.
• Do not touch the inside of the sample container.

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Understanding Urine Culture Results

✅ Negative (No Growth) – No bacterial infection detected.

🔴 Positive (Bacterial Growth Present)

• Indicates a UTI or other urinary tract infection.
• The report will list the type of bacteria and the colony-forming unit (CFU) count:
  • >100,000 CFU/mL → Significant infection
  • 10,000–100,000 CFU/mL → Possible infection (clinical correlation needed)
  • <10,000 CFU/mL → Likely contamination or no infection

📌 Common UTI-Causing Bacteria:

• Escherichia coli (E. coli) – Most common cause
• Klebsiella, Proteus, Enterococcus, Staphylococcus saprophyticus – Less common
• Candida (Fungal Infection) – Possible in diabetic or immunocompromised patients

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Sensitivity Report (Antibiotic Susceptibility Test)

• Lists which antibiotics are effective (“S” = Sensitive, “R” = Resistant).
• Helps doctors choose the best antibiotic for treatment.

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Next Steps If Positive for Infection

🔹 Antibiotic Treatment – Based on sensitivity results.
🔹 Hydration & Hygiene – Drink plenty of water and maintain good hygiene.
🔹 Follow-up Culture – If symptoms persist after treatment.