Bacteriafldcult
This test identifies bacteria present in body fluids to diagnose infections.
{"A bacterial culture test detects harmful bacteria in body fluids","Helps doctors identify the specific cause of infections","Guides appropriate antibiotic treatment","Results typically take 2-5 days","Sample is collected by needle from the infection site"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 611-4
- Short code
- BACIDBF
- Synonyms
- Bacteria Fld Cult
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof container appropriate for body fluid collection; blood culture bottles (aerobic and anaerobic) may be used for certain fluid types. Transport medium as required by specimen type. Do not use formalin or preservatives.
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- culture
- CPT
- 87070
- SNOMED
- 104182007
- Specimen volume
- Minimum 1-10 mL depending on fluid type (e.g., 1 mL for CSF, 5-10 mL for synovial, pleural, peritoneal fluids). Larger volumes preferred for optimal recovery of organisms.
- Stability
- Transport to laboratory as soon as possible, ideally within 1-2 hours of collection at room temperature. If delayed, store at room temperature (20-25°C) for up to 24 hours. Do not refrigerate body fluid cultures as some pathogens (e.g., Neisseria, Haemophilus) are cold-sensitive. For blood culture bottles, follow manufacturer specifications.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 48–168 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
A bacterial culture test is a laboratory procedure that identifies bacteria present in body fluids such as cerebrospinal fluid, pleural fluid, peritoneal fluid, or joint fluid. The sample is collected from the affected area using a needle and sent to the laboratory where it is placed in a special environment that allows bacteria to grow. Once bacteria are detected, further testing identifies the specific type and determines which antibiotics will be most effective.
Reference range
No growth of pathogenic bacteria. Normal flora reported as such when clinically appropriate. Results reported as organism identified with colony description and quantification where applicable.N/A
No special patient preparation required. Specimen collection should be performed using aseptic technique to avoid contamination. Disinfection of the collection site with appropriate antiseptic (e.g., chlorhexidine or povidone-iodine) is essential. Collect prior to initiation of antimicrobial therapy whenever possible. If patient is on antibiotics, document the specific agents and timing of last dose.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
How is the sample collected?
How long does it take to get results?
Does this test hurt?
What do the results mean?
Are there any risks to this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2
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