The Urethral Swab for bacterial Culture/Sensitivity (Aerobic) e Gram Stain Lab Test is a medical diagnostic test done on a sample of urethral discharge. It is performed to determine the presence of certain bacteria causing diseases such as Chlamydia and Gonorrhea.
It generally gives quick and accurate results which help the doctor make an accurate diagnosis and initiate effective treatment.
Some infections are caused by Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria; these bacteria stain purple or pink, respectively, and can be viewed under a microscope.
A sample of urethral discharge is taken, prepared, and observed under a microscope. The gram stain test helps determine the presence of bacteria, and their type and shape.
- What are the risks associated with this test?
There are no significant risks associated with this test, except for mild redness, pain, and irritation at the tested site. However, if you experience any severe reactions, please contact your doctor immediately.
- Does gram staining help make an accurate diagnosis?
Gram staining is e medical laboratory test; it is diagnostic and usually helps identify the infection-causing bacteria accurately. However, its use is only limited to bacteria that pick up the gram stain. All disease-causing bacteria do not show up with gram-staining.
- What does a urethral swab test for?
Urethral swab test is mostly done when there is excessive or abnormal-looking discharge from the urethra. The test helps diagnose several sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as Gonorrhea and Chlamydia.
- How is the urethral swab test done?
A medical professional uses a sterile piece of cotton or gauze to clean the opening of the urethra at the penis’ tip. For sample collection, a cotton swab is gently inserted into the urethra about 0.75 inch (2 centimeters) deep and carefully turned inside.
- Is the urethral swab test painful?
The urethral swab test may cause mild irritation and pain at the cotton insertion site; however, the pain gradually diminishes with no significant damage.
Certain infectious bacteria may or may not be present; this is determined by the gram stain lab test. Once the bacteria are identified, appropriate treatment can be initiated.
Some infections are mild, whilst others are serious and can have dire consequences. Getting tested is necessary for ruling out the causes of any abnormalities, which may be resolved within a few hours or, in some serious cases, last for years and require life-long treatment.
Getting tested is essential for the following reasons:
- Helps you and your doctor diagnose various allergies, infections, auto-immune disorders, cancers, metabolic disorders, anemia, etc.
- Regular check-up
- Diagnose conditions before they progress and prove to be fatal
- Plan treatment and evaluate the effectiveness of given therapy