What is Culture-Ureaplasma/Mycoplasma?
The Urea Plasma Culture test requires drawing blood from the patient, and this is done from a vein in the arm. The process is not painful and can be done without much discomfort. The blood sample is then put in a culture plate and incubated to enable any present bacteria to grow. The culture is then closely observed and if bacteria are present, they are further identified by biochemical and molecular tests.
This process is often carried out in sterile conditions to prevent contamination and to obtain accurate results. This test is usually done in laboratories and the results are analyzed using advanced laboratory equipment to identify and analyze the bacteria.
However, some healthcare professionals may advise for a urine culture test to be done at the same time as the plasma culture test to confirm the diagnosis of a UTI or other infections of the urinary tract. However, in the case of urea plasma culture, the emphasis is still given to the detection of bacterial pathogens in the blood related to urogenital disorders.
How is the Test Performed?
The Culture-Ureaplasma/Mycoplasma test is a straightforward test involving a simple blood draw.
Preparation
- Patients are told not to take certain drugs like antibiotics or other medications that can interfere with the bacteria’s growth before the test.
- Specific instructions will be provided by your healthcare provider regarding any other special preparation that is required.
Collection
- A trained phlebotomist draws blood from the vein in a sterile environment to prevent the contamination of the sample.
Lab Analysis
- The blood is then placed on the culture medium.
- The microbial growth is then examined using advanced diagnostic tools.
What are the symptoms that prompt this test?
If an individual is exhibiting the symptoms of urinary tract infection or kidney infection, the doctor might recommend this test. The following symptoms are generally present;
General Symptoms
- Difficulty urinating
- Frequent and painful urination
- Changes in the urine volume
- Foamy or cloudy urine with bad a odor
- Painful intercourse
- Low sperm count or infertility
- Lower abdominal pain
- Backache
- Recurring Urinary tract infections
What are Normal Ranges for This Test?
Culture ureaplasma/mycoplasma is a qualitative test, the results are reported as negative and positive, and is interpreted as follows;
Negative – No microbial growth
Positive –Significant microbial growth specifically of Ureaplasma urealyticum
**Always consult your healthcare professional for accurate result interpretation and the best treatment.**
What Happens if Test Results Show Abnormal Levels?
If the Ureaplasma urealyticum is found in the mycoplasma, it indicates that the person has an active infection that needs to be treated immediately. The doctor follows the following protocol if an infection is present;
- Administration of antibiotics such as quinolones, macrolides, and tetracycline
- If the infection persists this means that the bacteria are resistant and require a more targeted treatment plan.
- Presence of infection in CKD is crucial as it helps in close monitoring of the disease
- Treatment of an underlying condition is required to treat the infection effectively.
