Rapid Urine Culture Test

Fast and accurate diagnosis of the presence of UTI causing bacterial pathogens in the urine, allowing for prescription of antibiotics targeted at the specific infection.

Accurate UTI diagnosis in just 35 minutes

The Urology Partnership is proud to be one of the first UK clinics to offer patients an innovative new Rapid Urine Culture Test (Lodestar DX) capable of delivering fast and accurate UTI diagnosis.

With just one small urine sample we can:

  • Test for significant levels of the top 6 bacterial pathogens simultaneously which cause UTIs.
  • Deliver rapid results in 35 minutes.
  • Up to 97% accurate in detecting these bugs in the urine.
  • Reduce the use of antibiotics in patients who do not have a bacterial infection.
  • Where bacteria is present, accurately prescribe the best type of antibiotics to target the pathogen more efficiently.

rapid urine culture test

The problem with misdiagnosing UTIs

UTIs are one of the most common types of bacterial infections worldwide, causing those who have them psychological stress and significant inconvenience in daily life.

  • UTIs affected 404.6m people worldwide in 2019.
  • In England and Wales alone UTIs cause 5,000 deaths a year.
  • 50% of women will experience at least one UTI in their lifetime.
  • 20 to 30% of women with an initial UTI will experience a recurrent UTI within 3 to 4 months of the initial infection.
  • The risk of suffering from UTIs increases with age. With UTIs being one of the leading causes of bloodstream infections and sepsis in elderly patients.

woman suffering from uti

Yet despite the number of UTI cases around the world, treatment decisions are often based on vague symptoms, inaccurate dipsticks or slow diagnostic tools, such as the standard laboratory culture which can take days before results are available.

This leads to several diagnostic problems:

  1. Misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment, especially when it comes to the use of antibiotics. Receiving an antibiotic when one is not necessary, or receiving the wrong antibiotic, can increase the chance of a UTI becoming established (a recurrent UTI) or causing long term complications.
  2. Potential for over treatment as the reliance on incomplete information leads to unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions, contributing to the growing problem of bacterial antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in UTIs.
  3. Missed infections and rapid patient deterioration especially in the elderly who are more challenging to diagnose because of vague and non-specific symptoms.

The benefits of improved UTI diagnosis

Using our advanced Rapid Urine Culture Test we can provide a precise diagnosis by quickly identifying the specific bacteria causing your UTI. This allows us to prescribe a targeted antibiotic that is most effective for your particular infection.

rapid urine culture test accurate detection of bacteria that causes UTIs

With results available during your appointment, we can make an informed treatment decision straight away. Meaning you can leave the clinic with a confident diagnosis and, if required, a prescription specific to the type of bacteria in your urine. Leading to faster relief and improved patient outcomes.

This targeted approach prevents misdiagnosis and helps combat antibiotic resistance by avoiding the unnecessary use of broad-spectrum antibiotics.

Furthermore, the test can offer valuable peace of mind when used to confirm that your urine is clear of infection-causing bacteria. This is especially reassuring if you have recently finished a course of treatment, are preparing for surgery (such as urology procedures or orthopaedic surgery) or have treatment coming up which puts you at risk of developing UTIs.

Cost and insurance cover

The Rapid Urine Culture Test is covered by all major insurance providers.

For self-funding patients, the test at The Urology Partnership costs £73.00.

Follow-up consultations with one of our UTI specialists are available at our standard rates.

Book your test

To book a test, please call our clinic on 0118 920 7040.

Rapid Urine Culture Test FAQs

Our advanced Rapid Culture Test at The Urology Partnership is designed for accuracy and speed. The test is covered by all major UK insurance providers.

For self-funding patients, the cost of the test is £73.00.

A Urinary Tract Infection, or UTI, is an infection that occurs in any part of your urinary system. This system includes your kidneys, bladder, and the tubes that connect them (the ureters and urethra).

Most UTIs are caused by bacteria entering or hiding within the urinary tract. They are very common, especially in women, and usually affect the bladder, which is known as cystitis.

While typically straightforward to treat, an untreated infection can sometimes spread to the kidneys and become more serious.

The signs and symptoms of a UTI can vary depending on which part of the urinary tract is infected, but there are several common indicators to watch for.

Common symptoms of a lower UTI (in the bladder or urethra) include:

  • A strong, persistent urge to urinate.
  • A burning or stinging sensation when you pee.
  • Passing frequent, small amounts of urine.
  • Urine that appears cloudy, dark, or has a strong smell.
  • The presence of blood in your urine (it may look pink, red, or cola-coloured).
  • Pain in your lower abdomen or pelvic area.

Symptoms that may indicate the infection has spread to the kidneys (an upper UTI) are more severe and require urgent medical attention:

  • High temperature (fever) and chills.
  • Pain in your upper back or side, just under the ribs.
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Feeling generally very unwell.

In older people, a UTI can sometimes present with less specific symptoms, such as confusion, agitation or changes in behaviour.

If you suspect you have a UTI, it is important to seek medical advice for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which often involves urine tests and a course of antibiotics.

Get fast access to leading specialists for the swift diagnosis and treatment of urological conditions in a private clinic environment.

If you would like more information or wish to arrange a consultation with one of our specialist consultant urological surgeons then please either Call 0118 920 7040 or complete the form below.

Insured patients

Contact your GP and ask for a referral to the Urology Partnership.

All consultations, investigations and treatments are covered by major insurance companies (depending on policy).

Funding your own treatment

Self-funding initial consultation fee is £250. Follow up fees are £175.

Consultation charges are exclusive of any tests and other investigations that the consultant may wish to carry out.

If you are making an appointment on behalf of someone else, please complete the form with their details but add your own name and contact details into the "further information" box.

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