Escherichia coli BY PCR

The Escherichia coli BY PCR test uses real-time polymerase chain reaction to detect the genetic material of Escherichia coli in home-collected samples such as urine, stool or rectal swabs. PCR provides highly sensitive and specific identification of E. coli DNA, enabling rapid detection compared with traditional culture methods and supporting faster clinical decisions.

This test is useful for diagnosing urinary tract infections, acute or bloody diarrhoea, and for targeted investigation during suspected foodborne outbreaks; results from accredited Dubai laboratories are accompanied by expert interpretation to help your physician determine next steps. Note that PCR detects bacterial DNA and may not indicate viability or provide full antimicrobial susceptibility — culture may be recommended when antibiotic sensitivity is required.

• Escherichia coli (qualitative PCR)
• Escherichia coli DNA load (semi-quantitative, where applicable)
• Common virulence gene markers (e.g., stx, eae) — if included in panel
• Selected antimicrobial resistance gene screening — if included

• Symptoms of urinary tract infection (dysuria, frequency, urgency, haematuria)
• Acute diarrhoea, especially with blood or severe abdominal pain
• Suspected foodborne illness or outbreak contact tracing
• Persistent symptoms after empirical antibiotic therapy
• At-risk individuals (young children, elderly, immunocompromised) with GI or urinary symptoms

• High sensitivity and specificity for E. coli DNA detection
• Faster turnaround than culture, enabling quicker clinical action
• Convenient home sample collection and Dubai-wide pick-up
• Laboratory-confirmed results with professional interpretation for your clinician
• Useful for outbreak investigation and public health response

• Home-collected sample: stool, urine midstream, or rectal swab as instructed
• Avoid starting antibiotics prior to sample collection when clinically safe and directed by your physician
• Follow collection kit instructions and keep sample refrigerated if required until pick-up
• Sample pick-up and testing available across Dubai; ensure accurate patient details and UAE residency information