Blood Test Overview: What This Test Is and Why It May Be Needed
A laboratory test that identifies and grows bacteria from a sample of cells collected from the esophagus to diagnose infections.
{"The test detects bacterial infections in the esophagus","A small brush is used to collect cells from the esophageal lining","Results help doctors choose the right antibiotics if an infection is found","The test takes several days to complete because bacteria need time to grow"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 53908-0
- Short code
- ESOCULT
- Synonyms
- Bacteria Esoph Brush Cult
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile transport container with transport medium (e.g., Amies or Stuart's medium) for bacterial culture, or sterile screw-cap vial without preservatives for microbiology workup. Aerobic and anaerobic culturette transport swabs acceptable as backup.
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 0 years
- Method
- culture
- CPT
- 87075
- SNOMED
- 441910003
- Specimen volume
- Esophageal brushing specimen collected via cytology brush during endoscopy; minimal volume required - brush tip placed in 1-2 mL sterile saline or transport medium. Tissue equivalent: visible brush material adequate for culture.
- Stability
- Specimen should be transported to laboratory within 2 hours of collection at room temperature (20-25°C). If processing delayed beyond 2 hours, refrigerate at 2-8°C (up to 24 hours) or inoculate into appropriate transport medium. Anaerobic specimens must be processed within 1 hour if not in transport medium.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 48–168 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test and what does it measure in my body?
The Esophageal Brushing Culture test is a laboratory procedure that collects a sample of cells from the lining of your esophagus (the tube connecting your mouth to your stomach) using a special brush. This sample is then placed in a culture medium where any bacteria present can grow and be identified. This helps doctors determine if a bacterial infection is causing your symptoms.
How is the sample for this test collected, and what can I expect during the procedure?
During an upper endoscopy procedure, a thin flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) is passed through your mouth and down into your esophagus. A small brush attached to the endoscope is then used to gently scrape the lining of the esophagus to collect cells and any present bacteria. The procedure is usually done while you are sedated, so you will not feel discomfort.
Why might my healthcare provider order this test, and what conditions can it help detect?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, pain when swallowing, persistent heartburn, or unexplained irritation of the esophagus. It helps identify specific bacteria causing the infection so that targeted treatment can be prescribed.
What do my test results mean, and how will my healthcare provider explain them to me?
A negative result means no pathogenic bacteria were found in the sample. A positive result identifies the specific type of bacteria present, which helps your doctor select the most effective antibiotic treatment. Sometimes the test may show normal bacteria that normally live in the esophagus, which is not considered an infection.
Reference range
No pathogenic bacteria isolated. Normal esophageal flora is sparse and typically includes oral commensals. Results reported as organism identified (genus and species) with antibiotic susceptibility when clinically indicated. Common pathogens include Streptococcus species, Staphylococcus aureus, Candida species, and rarely Mycobacterium species.N/A
Patient should fast for at least 6-8 hours prior to endoscopic procedure. Discontinue proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) 2 weeks before sampling if possible, as they can alter esophageal flora. Avoid topical anesthetic sprays immediately before brushing. Antibiotic history should be documented as recent antimicrobial therapy may affect culture yield. Informed consent for endoscopic procedure required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Is the test painful?
Do I need to prepare for the test?
What happens if bacteria are found?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 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