If you are infected with a particular bacteria, how is a diagnosis made? what does a lab look for?

Answer 1

Well, you would get an idea of the microorganism causing the infection, for example, a bacteria called Shigella, usually causes gastrointestinal infection. However, in these days, as a microbiologist, you should have an open mind.

Usually, you should analyze the biological sample (tissue, sputa, pleural liquid, secretion, etc.) with a microscopy, an putting some of the sample in a media culture, who is designed to make more easily the growth of the microorganism of interest, so then you make biochemical identification of it, so you can determine the type of microorganism.

There are other methods, like molecular techniques, or immunilogical techniques that can be of great help.

Answer 2

depends on the doctor and how he wants to diagonise the patient and what the symptoms are and sometimes he will ask for a blood count/sample etc., the lab as well as the doctor will take a look at your white cell count and the tests that he asked you to take. if it's a high white blood cell count, there is an infection usually and he also considers the lab work you've done too to make his final diagnosis.

Answer 3

Generally, if necessary, a lab just test which of the medications kills the bacteria. They dont need to give it a name.

Answer 4

usually under a microscope,or culture dish/microscope