What is a Urine Culture Test?

A urine culture gives microorganisms several days to grow in a suitable growth medium. The sample is then examined under a microscope to detect the presence and extent of growth. 

The test is positive if the culture shows signs of bacteria or other microorganisms. In the case of less or no growth, the test is negative.

Common symptoms of a urinary tract infection are pain and discomfort in the abdominal area, pain while urinating, and the urge to urinate frequently. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, your doctor might recommend a Urine Culture Test. A urine culture can determine the presence and cause of a UTI and if the symptoms are related.

The lab personnel collect your urine sample through one of the various methods available. This sample is then grown in a growth medium suitable for bacteria and other microorganisms for several days. 

The personnel then examines the growth under a microscope. If the medium shows signs of UTI-causing bacteria, the result is positive; in the case of less or no growth, the result is negative.

Bacteria and other microbes that might cause a UTI can enter through the urethra. The Urine Culture will show the presence and extent of the growth of bacteria in your urine.

The presence of bacterial or yeast growth seen in the urine culture can indicate the presence of a urinary tract infection. 

However, to detect a kidney infection, your doctor will recommend a blood test with a urine culture. A blood test can indicate the presence of bacteria and other organisms in your blood.

A urine culture test can partially infer a kidney function. But to confirm it, your doctor might recommend a blood test to check the presence of bacteria in your bloodstream.

A urine sample can detect various conditions like urinary tract infections, kidney infections, and diabetes. An urinalysis includes checking the physical appearance, concentration, and contents of the urine. 

For example, an increased concentration of proteins can indicate kidney infection, and a cloudy appearance can signify a UTI.

Typically, for a kidney infection, the Urine Culture Test is positive. If you test negative but still experience symptoms, you will need further testing to find the cause of your symptoms. 

In rare cases, the presence of symptoms despite repeated negative cultures can be signs of bladder cancer.

The average cost of a Urine Culture test ranges from 300 INR to 750 INR. Depending on cities, laboratories, equipment, accuracy, and many other factors, the average cost of a Urine Culture test differs.