Bacteriamaraerobecult
This test detects and identifies aerobic bacteria in a bone marrow sample to diagnose infections.
{"A bone marrow culture checks for bacterial infections in your bone marrow","The test helps diagnose conditions like osteomyelitis and unexplained fevers","A small sample of bone marrow is collected and placed in conditions that allow bacteria to grow","Results typically take 2-5 days to complete","Positive results indicate a bacterial infection that requires treatment"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 19126-2
- Short code
- BMARID
- Synonyms
- Bacteria Mar Aerobe Cult
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile blood culture bottle (aerobic and anaerobic pairs) or sterile transport container with transport medium; sterile screw-cap tube for bone marrow aspirate
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 5
- Ref high
- 7
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- aerobic-culture
- CPT
- 87040
- SNOMED
- 40133007
- Specimen volume
- 1-3 mL of bone marrow aspirate for pediatric patients; 3-5 mL for adults; inoculated into blood culture bottles or sterile container
- Stability
- Specimen should be transported to the laboratory immediately at room temperature (20-25°C). If delayed, bone marrow aspirate may be stored at room temperature for up to 24 hours. Do not refrigerate blood culture bottles.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 48–336 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
A Bone Marrow Aerobic Culture is a laboratory test that detects and identifies aerobic (oxygen-requiring) bacteria in a sample of bone marrow. Bone marrow is the spongy tissue inside bones where blood cells are produced. This test helps doctors determine if there is a bacterial infection in the bone marrow or surrounding bone tissue.
Why do I need this test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms suggesting a bone or bone marrow infection, such as persistent fever, bone pain, or swelling. It is commonly used to diagnose osteomyelitis (bone infection), to investigate fevers of unknown origin, or to check for infections in patients with weakened immune systems. The test may also be performed as part of a workup for certain blood disorders or cancers.
How is the sample collected?
A healthcare provider will collect a small sample of bone marrow, usually from the hip bone (iliac crest) or breastbone (sternum). The area will be cleaned and numbed with local anesthesia. A special needle is then inserted to draw out a small amount of bone marrow fluid. This procedure is called a bone marrow aspiration. The sample is immediately placed in special containers and sent to the laboratory for culture.
What do the results mean?
If the culture shows no bacterial growth, it may indicate no bacterial infection is present. If bacteria are identified, the laboratory will determine the specific type of bacteria causing the infection. This information helps your doctor prescribe the most effective antibiotic treatment. A negative result does not completely rule out infection, as some bacteria may not grow in aerobic culture conditions or may require special growth conditions.
Reference range
No growth of pathogenic bacteria. Results reported as organism identified or 'No growth' after standard incubation period (typically 5-7 days, up to 14 days for slow-growing organisms).N/A
No special patient preparation required. Inform patient about the invasive nature of bone marrow aspiration. Discontinue antibiotics prior to collection only if clinically feasible and as directed by physician (typically 48-72 hours before specimen collection if possible, to improve recovery).
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Is the bone marrow collection procedure painful?
How long does it take to get results?
What happens if my test is positive?
Are there any risks associated with this test?
Do I need to prepare for this test?
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