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Bacteriabpuanaerobecult

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test checks blood products (like blood for transfusions) for the presence of anaerobic bacteria, which are bacteria that can grow without oxygen.

Quick summary

{"This test detects harmful anaerobic bacteria in blood products before transfusion","It helps prevent infections from contaminated blood transfusions","Results determine if the blood product is safe for patient use","Anaerobic bacteria can cause serious bloodstream infections","This is a routine safety check for all blood products"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
87935-3
Short code
BCBCAN
Synonyms
Bacteria BPU Anaerobe Cult
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Sterile anaerobic blood culture bottle or sterile leak-proof container; transfer blood product aliquot under aseptic conditions into anaerobic transport media
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
anaerobic-culture
CPT
87075
SNOMED
104182005
Specimen volume
1-10 mL of blood product (per aliquot), depending on container type and testing protocol
Stability
Process immediately upon receipt; if delayed, store at room temperature (20-25°C) for no more than 2 hours; do not refrigerate as some anaerobes are cold-sensitive
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
48–240 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Anaerobic Bacterial Culture test is a laboratory procedure used to detect and identify anaerobic bacteria in blood products such as red blood cell units, platelet concentrates, or plasma. Anaerobic bacteria are microorganisms that can survive and multiply in environments without oxygen, and they can contaminate blood products during collection, processing, or storage. This test is a critical safety measure performed by blood banks to ensure that all blood products transfused to patients are free from bacterial contamination.

How is the test performed?

A small sample is taken from the blood product unit and placed in special culture bottles designed to support the growth of anaerobic bacteria. These bottles contain nutrients and are stored in controlled conditions that favor anaerobic bacterial growth. Laboratory technicians monitor the culture over several days, looking for signs of bacterial growth. If bacteria are detected, further testing identifies the specific type of anaerobic bacteria present.

Why is this test important?

Blood transfusions are life-saving procedures, but contaminated blood products can cause severe and potentially fatal infections. Anaerobic bacteria are particularly dangerous because they can multiply in the oxygen-depleted environment of stored blood. This test helps prevent transfusion-transmitted bacterial infections, which can lead to sepsis (blood poisoning), fever, shock, and other serious complications. By screening all blood products before they are released for transfusion, blood banks protect patients from these risks.

Reference range

No anaerobic bacteria isolated from blood product unitN/A

Specimen: whole-blood

Not applicable; specimen is a blood product unit, not patient-derived directly. Ensure proper chain of custody documentation and aseptic sampling technique from the blood product bag.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Does this test check my blood directly?
No, this test checks blood products (like blood units stored at blood banks) before they are given to patients. It is part of the quality control process to ensure transfused blood is safe.
How long does it take to get results?
The test typically takes 5-7 days to complete. This is because anaerobic bacteria may need time to grow and become detectable in the culture. The extended incubation period ensures accurate results.
Is this test painful?
No, this test is performed on blood product units in a laboratory setting, not on patients. Patients do not experience any pain from this testing process.
What happens if bacteria are found in a blood product?
If anaerobic bacteria are detected, the blood product is immediately quarantined and destroyed. The blood bank investigates the source of contamination and may notify the donor. This ensures no contaminated blood reaches patients.
Why are anaerobic bacteria specifically tested?
Anaerobic bacteria are a unique concern in blood products because they can grow in the oxygen-limited environment inside storage bags. Some anaerobic bacteria, like Clostridium species, can produce toxins and cause severe infections if transfused.
  1. 1
    AABB Standards for Blood Banking and Transfusion ServicesSource
  2. 2
    FDA Blood Product Safety GuidelinesSource
  3. 3
    CDC - Blood SafetySource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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