The Culture & Sensitivity Rectal Swab Test is an important diagnostic investigation used to detect harmful bacteria present in the rectal area and determine which antibiotics can effectively treat the infection. This test plays a critical role in diagnosing gastrointestinal infections, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and antibiotic-resistant bacterial conditions. When performed at Dr. Essa Laboratory & Diagnostic Centre, patients receive accurate, reliable, and timely results backed by modern technology and expert microbiologists.
Dr. Essa Laboratory is one of Pakistan’s most trusted diagnostic chains, widely known for its standardized procedures, hygienic sample handling, and digital reporting system. The Rectal Swab Culture & Sensitivity Test helps doctors choose the right antibiotic for the infection, avoiding unnecessary medications and ensuring faster recovery. Whether your doctor suspects a bacterial infection, persistent rectal discomfort, diarrhea, or antibiotic resistance, this test provides clear insights for proper diagnosis and treatment.
In this article, you’ll find complete details about the test purpose, preparation guidelines, sample collection method, normal values, cost, booking information, and report interpretation all in a simple, patient-friendly language.
What is Culture & Sensitivity Rectal Swab?
The Culture & Sensitivity Rectal Swab Test is a laboratory procedure used to identify bacteria present in the rectum. The test also checks which antibiotics can effectively kill the detected bacteria. It has two major components:
Culture
This part detects:
- Bacterial growth
- Type of bacteria
- Colony characteristics
Sensitivity
This part determines:
- Which antibiotics the bacteria is sensitive to
- Which antibiotics are resistant
- Best medication for treatment
Doctors recommend this test to diagnose:
- Bacterial gastroenteritis
- Drug resistant infections
- Rectal STIs
- Hospital acquired infections
- Pre-surgery screening
- Chronic diarrhea or discomfort
This test is especially important when infections do not respond to routine antibiotics.
Why is the Culture & Sensitivity Rectal Swab Test Important?
This test is crucial because rectal bacterial infections can spread quickly and may lead to serious health issues if untreated. Identifying the exact bacteria helps prevent complications such as:
- Severe gastrointestinal infection
- Systemic bacterial spread
- Chronic rectal inflammation
- Symptoms like pain, discharge, diarrhea, or fever
- Antibiotic resistance
Choosing the right antibiotic is essential. Using the wrong antibiotic can worsen the infection. This test ensures targeted treatment, helping doctors prescribe the safest and most effective medication.
When Should You Get a Culture & Sensitivity Rectal Swab Test?
Doctors usually recommend this test when you have symptoms such as:
- Persistent diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Mucus or blood in stool
- Anal or rectal irritation
- Suspected sexually transmitted bacterial infections
- Fever with abdominal discomfort
- Infection not improving with routine antibiotics
- Pre-hospitalization or pre-surgical requirement
It is also recommended in cases where the patient has recently traveled, consumed contaminated food, or is experiencing recurrent infections.
How to Prepare for the Rectal Swab Test?
Preparing for this test is simple. Here are the common guidelines:
- No fasting required
- Do not use antibiotics for 48-72 hours, unless your doctor advises otherwise
- Avoid applying creams or ointments near the anal area
- Inform the lab if you have taken antibiotics recently
- Maintain basic hygiene but do not wash the rectal area excessively before the test
These steps help ensure accurate culture results.
How the Test is Performed at Dr. Essa Laboratory & Diagnostic Centre
At Dr. Essa Laboratory, the test is performed by trained professionals following strict infection-control protocols.
Step-by-Step Procedure
- A sterile swab is gently inserted into the rectum.
- It is rotated to collect a sample from the mucosal surface.
- The swab is placed into a special transport medium.
- The sample is sent to the microbiology department.
- Bacterial culture is performed on selective media.
- Antibiotic sensitivity tests (AST) are conducted.
- Results are digitally generated and reviewed by a consultant microbiologist.
Dr. Essa Laboratory ensures:
- Quick processing
- Accurate results
- International standard testing equipment
- Safe and hygienic procedures
Patients can expect their reports within 48-72 hours.
Test Report & Normal Values
Normal Values
A rectal swab culture should show no pathogenic bacterial growth. However, normal flora may be present.
| Result Type | Meaning |
| No Pathogen Detected | Normal-no harmful bacteria found |
| Normal Flora Detected | Expected, non-infective bacteria present |
| Pathogenic Bacteria Detected | Infection confirmed |
| Antibiotic Sensitivity Panel | Shows which antibiotics work |
How to Read the Report
- Sensitive (S) means the antibiotic will work.
- Resistant (R) means the antibiotic will NOT work.
- Intermediate (I) means partial effectiveness.
Only a qualified doctor should interpret the test report and explain what the results mean.
Understanding Abnormal Results
Abnormal results may indicate the presence of bacteria such as:
- Salmonella
- Shigella
- E. coli (pathogenic strains)
- Campylobacter
- Enterococcus
- Pseudomonas
- Drug-resistant organisms
Possible Causes
- Contaminated food or water
- Poor hygiene
- Unprotected sexual activity
- Weakened immunity
- Hospital exposure
- Antibiotic abuse
Patients with abnormal results need:
- Proper antibiotic treatment
- Follow-up testing
- Hydration and supportive care
How to Reduce the Risk of Rectal Infections Naturally
Here are some practical tips:
- Maintain proper hygiene
- Avoid unclean or contaminated water
- Practice safe sexual habits
- Boost immunity with a healthy diet
- Increase hydration
- Avoid unnecessary antibiotics
- Handwashing before meals
- Use probiotics (if advised by a doctor)
These lifestyle habits help reduce infection risk and improve gut health.
Culture & Sensitivity Rectal Swab Test Cost at Dr. Essa Laboratory
The Culture & Sensitivity Rectal Swab Test at Dr. Essa Laboratory & Diagnostic Centre costs Rs. 2,400. This test helps identify harmful bacteria and determines which antibiotics will be most effective for treatment. Dr. Essa Lab is known for accurate microbiology testing, modern diagnostic equipment, and reliable reporting standards. Patients receive both digital and printed reports, and the lab also offers convenient online booking and helpline support.
Below is the list of other Culture & Sensitivity tests available at Dr. Essa Laboratory with original prices only (no discounted prices):
Culture & Sensitivity Tests Price List
| Test Name | Rs |
| Culture & Sensitivity Rectal Swab | Rs. 2,400 |
| Culture & Sensitivity (Food) | Rs. 2,300 |
| Culture & Sensitivity (Fungal) | Rs. 2,300 |
| Culture & Sensitivity (Sputum) | Rs. 2,400 |
| Culture & Sensitivity (Urethral Swab) | Rs. 2,400 |
| Culture & Sensitivity CVP Tip | Rs. 2,300 |
| Culture & Sensitivity Shunt | Rs. 2,300 |
| Culture & Sensitivity Vitreous Tap | Rs. 2,400 |
| Culture & Sensitivity (Ascitic Fluid) | Rs. 2,400 |
| Culture & Sensitivity (Cystic Fluid) | Rs. 2,400 |
| Culture & Sensitivity (Foleys Tip) | Rs. 2,300 |
| Culture & Sensitivity (Liver Abscess) | Rs. 2,400 |
| Culture & Sensitivity (Left Ear Swab) | Rs. 2,400 |
| Culture & Sensitivity (Prostatic Fluid) | Rs. 2,300 |
| Culture & Sensitivity (Right Eye) | Rs. 2,400 |
| Culture & Sensitivity (Right Ear Swab) | Rs. 2,400 |
| Culture & Sensitivity (Swab for KLB) | Rs. 2,300 |
| Culture & Sensitivity (Tracheal Aspirate) | Rs. 2,400 |
| Culture & Sensitivity (Wound Swab) | Rs. 2,400 |
Dr. Essa Laboratory Rectal Swab Culture & Sensitivity Price in Pakistan
The Dr. Essa Laboratory Rectal Swab Culture & Sensitivity Test Price in Pakistan is Rs. 2,400.
You can easily:
- Compare Rectal Swab C&S test prices
- Check test details
- Book online at discounted rates
- Visit the nearest Dr. Essa Lab branch for sample collection
The price remains consistent across major cities including Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and Hyderabad.
Where to Book the Culture & Sensitivity Rectal Swab Test in Pakistan
Searching for Rectal Swab C&S Test near me?
You can:
- Compare lab charges across Pakistan
- View Dr. Essa Laboratory test rates
- Check test availability
- Book online through All Lab Tests Pakistan
- Get reports digitally
Whether you live in Karachi, Lahore, Multan, Rawalpindi, or any other city, online booking makes the process quick and easy.
Book Your Culture & Sensitivity Rectal Swab Test at Dr. Essa Laboratory
Book your Culture & Sensitivity Rectal Swab Test today through All Lab Tests Pakistan and get fast, accurate results from a trusted diagnostic center. Enjoy:
- Hassle-free test booking
- Home sample collection (if available)
- Fast reporting
- Skilled microbiologists
- Affordable pricing
Your health deserves expert care book your test with confidence.
