Our UTI Package Explained
What are the tests in the UTI Package?
Struggling with recurring UTIs? Our comprehensive UTI test package screens for 11 key infections, including E. coli, E. faecalis, Candida species, S. aureus, and S. agalactiae. Designed for women but suitable for men, this test helps you pinpoint the cause of discomfort and take action. Fast, accurate, and hassle-free. Take control of your urinary health today!
Below is a breakdown of each test, including its purpose and why testing is important:
Full package: R1609
Bacteria Tested:
✅ Escherichia coli (E. coli)
- Why it matters: E. coli is the leading cause of UTIs, responsible for up to 80–90% of all cases. It typically originates from the gut and can enter the urinary tract, causing burning urination, urgency, and discomfort. Some strains of E. coli are resistant to antibiotics, making precise identification crucial for effective treatment.
✅ Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis)
- Why it matters: E. faecalis is another common cause of complicated UTIs, particularly in people with weakened immune systems, catheter use, or prior antibiotic treatments. It is known for its biofilm formation, making it harder to eradicate and often leading to recurrent infections.
✅ Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus)
- Why it matters: While S. aureus is more commonly associated with skin infections, it can enter the bloodstream and cause severe urinary tract infections. It is a more aggressive pathogen that may lead to complications such as kidney infections (pyelonephritis) or bloodstream infections.
✅ Streptococcus agalactiae (Group B Strep, GBS)
- Why it matters: S. agalactiae (Group B Strep) is a bacterial strain that can cause urinary and reproductive infections, particularly in pregnant women. It is an important test for those experiencing recurrent UTIs, as it can be linked to preterm labor and newborn infections if passed from mother to child during delivery.
Fungal Infections (Candida Species) Tested:
Urinary yeast infections can mimic bacterial UTIs, causing burning urination, frequency, and pelvic discomfort. Testing for Candida species is essential, particularly for people with diabetes, weakened immune systems, or recent antibiotic use.
✅ Candida albicans (C. albicans)
- Why it matters: C. albicans is the most common cause of fungal UTIs, particularly in women, diabetics, and immunocompromised individuals. It thrives in the urinary tract when bacterial balance is disrupted (e.g., after antibiotic use), leading to persistent burning, itching, and discomfort.
✅ Candida dubliniensis
- Why it matters: C. dubliniensis is closely related to C. albicans and often found in people with weakened immune systems. Though it is less common, it can cause antifungal-resistant infections, making its detection critical for appropriate treatment.
✅ Candida glabrata
- Why it matters: C. glabrata is highly resistant to common antifungal treatments. It causes chronic or recurrent yeast infections, often in older adults, diabetics, and postmenopausal women. Detecting it helps doctors choose the most effective treatment.
✅ Candida krusei
- Why it matters: C. krusei is naturally resistant to fluconazole, a standard antifungal medication. If present in a UTI, alternative treatments are necessary. It is commonly found in hospital-acquired infections or in people who have used antifungal medications before.
✅ Candida lusitaniae
- Why it matters: A rare but emerging cause of fungal UTIs, C. lusitaniae can be resistant to antifungal treatments, making its detection important for preventing persistent infections.
✅ Candida parapsilosis
- Why it matters: This yeast species is commonly found in hospital-acquired infections, particularly in people with catheters or urinary tract abnormalities. It can lead to systemic infections if left untreated.
✅ Candida tropicalis
- Why it matters: C. tropicalis is highly invasive and often found in people with diabetes or weakened immune systems. It is more likely than other Candida species to spread beyond the urinary tract and into the bloodstream.
Who Should Get This Test?
This Comprehensive UTI Test Package is ideal for:
✔️ Women with recurrent UTIs or vaginal discomfort
✔️ Men experiencing persistent urinary symptoms
✔️ People with diabetes, weakened immunity, or frequent antibiotic use
✔️ Those with symptoms like burning urination, pelvic pain, or abnormal discharge
Take Control of Your Urinary Health
If you suspect a UTI or yeast infection, don’t guess—test. Our advanced screening helps you get the right diagnosis so you can start the right treatment.
Book with Epicentre
For 20 years Epicentre has been studying wellness in South Africa. We are a company founded on a vision, ending disease in South Africa! So we believe in making an IMPACT.
We are an independent organization that is committed to creating a positive impact on health & wellness for all in South Africa. We want to close the gap between unscreened, undiagnosed, and uncontrolled HIV & COVID-19 infections as well as other chronic diseases for all South Africans.
By booking your tests with Epicentre, you are supporting a real local company that has worked for 20 years in all 9 provinces, from Pollsmoor prison to Constantia; & you’re getting a gold standard service that experts trust!
