What do abnormal stool cultures show?

An abnormal stool culture typically indicates the presence of harmful or potentially harmful bacteria, parasites, or fungi in the stool. Here are a few notable findings in abnormal stool cultures:

* Bacterial Infections:

- Salmonella and Shigella: These bacteria cause severe gastrointestinal infections leading to symptoms like fever, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bloody stools.

- Campylobacter: Infection with Campylobacter bacteria also leads to gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhea and abdominal pain.

- Escherichia coli (E. coli): Certain strains of E. coli, such as E. coli O157:H7, can cause severe diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and bloody stools.

- Clostridium Difficile (C. diff): C. diff infection is often associated with healthcare settings, causing severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever.

* Parasitic Infections:

- Giardia: A parasite that causes giardiasis, characterized by symptoms such as watery diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weight loss.

- Cryptosporidium: This parasite leads to cryptosporidiosis, which causes watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and fever.

- Entamoeba histolytica: Infection with Entamoeba histolytica results in amebic dysentery or amoebiasis. Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and may even involve other organs like the liver.

* Fungal Infections:

- Candida: Overgrowth of Candida species, usually Candida albicans, can lead to fungal infections in the digestive tract. It may show up in stool cultures.

It's important to note that abnormal stool cultures should be interpreted by a healthcare professional, considering the individual's symptoms and overall health history, as some bacteria and microorganisms can be present without causing any symptoms or health problems.