: Bacteria Identified in Bartholin Cyst Fluid by Aerobic Culture
: This test uses a sample of fluid from a Bartholin gland cyst to culture and identify bacteria that may be causing infection. It helps your doctor determine whether the cyst is infected and which organisms are present.
[": An aerobic culture of Bartholin cyst fluid checks for oxygen-tolerant bacteria that can cause or complicate a cyst infection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 74355-9
- Short code
- BARTH
- Synonyms
- Bacteria Barth cyst Aerobe Cult
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile transport swab (e.g., Amies or Stuart's transport medium) or sterile screw-cap container for aspirated fluid/pus
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- female
- Age range
- 18–99 years
- Method
- aerobic-culture
- CPT
- 87070
- SNOMED
- 428531000124102
- Specimen volume
- 0.5-2 mL of aspirated fluid or pus; if using swab, ensure visible specimen material is collected
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2 hours; refrigerated (2-8°C): 24 hours; do not freeze. Transport to laboratory as soon as possible after collection.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 48–168 hours
- Order
- routine
: What Is Being Tested
: A sample of fluid or discharge from a Bartholin gland cyst is placed on culture media that support the growth of aerobic bacteria, meaning organisms that grow in the presence of oxygen. If bacteria grow, the laboratory identifies them and may test which antibiotics are likely to work.
: Why Your Doctor Ordered It
: Your doctor may order this test when a Bartholin cyst is painful, swollen, red, or filled with pus, which can suggest infection. Identifying the bacteria can guide treatment decisions, especially when antibiotics or drainage are being considered.
: How the Sample Is Collected
: A clinician collects the sample, often during drainage or aspiration of the cyst, using sterile technique. The fluid is sent to the laboratory, where it is cultured and watched for bacterial growth over a period of days.
: What Results Mean
: A result may show specific bacteria, mixed organisms, or no growth. Growth of bacteria can support a diagnosis of an infected cyst, while no growth may suggest the cyst is not infected or that organisms did not survive collection. Results are interpreted together with your symptoms and exam.
Reference range
No growth of pathogenic bacteria; normal vaginal/introital flora may be reported as commensal organismsN/A
Avoid application of topical antibiotics, antiseptics, or douches to the vulvar/vaginal area for at least 48 hours prior to specimen collection. The patient should not bathe or use vaginal products immediately before collection.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
: Bartholin Cyst Aerobic Culture
Frequently asked questions
: Does a positive culture always mean I need antibiotics?
: Can the test miss an infection?
: How long does it take to get results?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy