Urine microbiological testing
Why this test?
This test allows you to detect the pathogenic microflora of the urinary tract, especially in case of people with risk factors, the treatment of which is long and ineffective. The testing helps to determine the localization of the infection (upper or lower urinary tract), to determine the bacteria type that caused it, and on this basis to choose the most successful (with the least number of side effects) antibiotics treatment to prevent possible complications.
In what cases is it prescribed?
- in case of urination burning and pain
- in case of urine smell and color changes
- in case of pain in the lower abdomen and (or lower back)
- in case of chills and fever
- in case of blood impurities in the urine
Information about the test
Normally, there are no bacteria in the urine and in the urinary tract lumen.
When bacteria enter the urinary tract from the skin (via the urethra) and begin to multiply, an urinary tract infection develops. Most of them affect the lower urinary tract (bladder). Such infections are considered uncomplicated and easily treatable.
However, if the pathogen is not detected in the early stages, the infection can spread up the ureters to the kidneys, causing dangerous pyelonephritis, which, if left untreated, damages the kidneys. In the most serious cases, the bacteria can spread into the blood and cause life-threatening sepsis.
The most common cause of urinary tract infection is salt. Women are more likely to get urinary tract infections than men. This is partly because the female urethra is shorter and closer to the anus, which makes it easier for bacteria from the gut to come into contact with the urethra.
One of the most informative testing that allows you to determine the causative agent of the disease and its medical drugs sensitivity is the microbiological testing of the material.
This test gives the doctor not only the pathogens microorganism type information but also helps to choose the right treatment. When the type of causative agent is determined, an antibioticogram is performed - to identify the drugs resistant pathogenic microflora and non-resistant pathogenic microflora. Thus, the correct therapy is prescribed from the beginning.
