In simple words: The lab tests a stool sample to check for Salmonella and Shigella bacteria, which can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, and fever. They grow the bacteria in a special dish to see if they are present.

This CPT code encompasses the performance of an aerobic bacterial stool culture, isolating potential pathogens, and conducting a preliminary examination to identify the presence of Salmonella or Shigella species.The process involves inoculating a stool sample onto selective media (agar plates) designed to promote the growth of Salmonella and Shigella while inhibiting the growth of typical gut flora. Following aerobic incubation (typically 24-48 hours), the analyst examines the culture plates for bacterial colonies exhibiting characteristics consistent with these pathogens (e.g., color changes on KIA and LIA media due to acid and hydrogen sulfide production).

Example 1: A 5-year-old child presents with bloody diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. A stool culture is ordered to identify the causative agent., An outbreak of suspected Salmonella poisoning occurs at a local restaurant. Stool samples from affected individuals are cultured to confirm the diagnosis., A patient with a weakened immune system exhibits symptoms suggestive of Shigellosis. A stool culture is performed to confirm the infection and guide appropriate treatment.

Complete patient demographics, date and time of collection, sample type (stool), clinical indication for testing (e.g., diarrhea, fever, abdominal pain), and relevant patient history should be documented. Laboratory report should include the date of the test, identification of the organism, and interpretation of results.

** Presumptive identification is based on colony morphology, growth characteristics on selective media, Gram stains, or up to three additional tests. Definitive identification requires more extensive testing to the genus or species level.