Urinalysis (ECBU) in Tangier: practical guide

ECBU: the reference examination for urinary infections

The ECBU (CytoBacteriological Examination of Urine) is the most commonly prescribed test to diagnose a urinary infection. At the Tangier International Laboratory, we analyze hundreds of ECBUs every week with rigor and precision.

When to do an ECBU?

• Burning or pain when urinating
• Frequent and urgent urge to urinate
• Cloudy or smelly urine
• Pain in the lower abdomen or back
• Fever of undetermined origin
• Systematic monitoring during pregnancy

How to collect the sample correctly?

The quality of the sample is essential to avoid contamination:

1. Wash your hands and genital area thoroughly
2. Eliminate the first stream of urine in the toilet
3. Collect the spray medium in the sterile jar provided by the laboratory
4. Bring the sample to the laboratory within 2 hours (or store in the refrigerator)

What is the ECBU looking for?

The ECBU includes two parts: the cytological examination (counting white blood cells, red blood cells, crystals) and the bacteriological culture with antibiogram if pathogenic bacteria are identified.

Result deadlines

The first results (direct examination) are available within a few hours. Complete culture with antibiogram requires 24 to 48 hours.

Consult our ECBU page or contact us for more information.