Why Is Urine Culture Advised When With Suspected Sepsis In Blood?

Posted on Thu, 20 Apr 2017

Question: Dear Doctor, I understand that in cases of suspected sepsis both blood cultures and a urine M/C/S are typically done. I realise that blood cultures may identify the particular infection in the bloodstream. But then what is the point of taking a urine M/C/S? I do not understand the importance of it.

Answered by Dr. Ivo Ditah (35 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Urine might be the source of this infection!

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

This is because the origin of the germ in blood could be from the urinary tract. Doing a culture would therefore be helpful in identifying the origin and germ. Investigating possible different sources increases the advantages of picking up the infection and treating quickly.

I hope this addresses your query fully. I wish you well. Feel free to follow up with me is need be.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Ivo Ditah (29 minutes later)

Thank you Dr. Ditah for your helpful response. I hope that you do not mind if I ask one more question. The question is asked only because of my lack of medical knowledge and I would like to be sure that I haven't misunderstood you. Am I right in inferring from what you have said that taking a urine MCS has the advantage of identifying a particular infection that may be missed (not detected) by blood cultures?

Answered by Dr. Ivo Ditah (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Yes, that's correct!

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thanks for the follow up query.

It is always difficult to tell what the exact infection is and where it is coming from. However, we do know the common origins of infection that should be highly considered during evaluation. That is the exact point in getting multiple culture specimens when need arises.

I wish you well.

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar