Complete Guide to This Laboratory Test: What It MeasuresMedically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team·Last reviewed August 16, 2026·[Editorial policy](https://wellally.tech/editorial-policy)
## Key facts at a glance
LOINC43214-6Short codeNPHCULTSynonymsBacteria Nph CultCategorychemistrySampleserumContainerSterile transport swab in Amies or Stuart's transport medium; or sterile container for aspiratesUnitsN/AFastingfalsePopulationadultSexallAge range≥ 0 yearsMethodcultureCPT87070SNOMED444091000124101Specimen volumeOne nasopharyngeal swab or 1-2 mL of nasopharyngeal aspirateStabilityRoom temperature: 2 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 24 hours. Do not freeze. Inoculate culture media as soon as possible for optimal recovery.Hemolysis max500Lipemia max1000Icterus max500TAT48–96 hoursOrderroutine
## This section explains what the test is designed to measure, how the results can help your healthcare provider better understand your health, and what role the test plays in diagnosing, screening for, or monitoring a medical condition over time.


The Bacteria Identified in Nasopharynx by Culture test is a diagnostic procedure that collects a sample from the nasopharynx (the upper part of the throat located behind the nose). The sample is then placed in special containers to allow any bacteria present to grow and be identified. This helps healthcare providers determine if a bacterial infection is present and exactly which type of bacteria is causing it.


## Your sample may be collected in several ways depending on the test, most commonly through a simple blood draw from a vein in your arm, a urine collection at home or in the office, or a swab, and your care team will give you clear instructions on how to prepare beforehand.


A healthcare professional will use a sterile swab to collect a sample from the back of your throat through your nose. The procedure may cause brief discomfort or a gagging sensation. The sample is then placed in transport medium and sent to the laboratory for analysis.


## Your healthcare provider may order this test to help find the cause of symptoms you are having, check how well an organ or body system is working, monitor a condition you already know you have, or see how well your current treatment is responding over time.


Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of a respiratory infection such as persistent cough, sore throat, fever, or nasal congestion. It is also commonly used in hospital settings to screen for carriers of certain dangerous bacteria, especially before surgery or when patients are at risk of spreading infections to others.


Reference range


No pathogenic bacteria isolated. Normal nasopharyngeal flora includes commensal organisms such as Staphylococcus epidermidis, Corynebacterium species, viridans streptococci, and Neisseria species.N/A

Specimen: serum

No special patient preparation is required. The patient should avoid using topical nasal medications or antiseptics for at least 24 hours prior to specimen collection. Specimen should be collected before initiation of antibiotic therapy whenever possible.


## Clinical interpretation


How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.


This test is clinically significant because it identifies the specific bacteria causing an infection, allowing doctors to prescribe targeted antibiotic treatment. It is particularly important for detecting antibiotic-resistant bacteria like MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus). The test also helps distinguish between viral and bacterial infections, which is crucial since antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections. In carrier screening scenarios, identifying colonizing bacteria helps prevent the spread of infections in healthcare settings and communities.


## Frequently asked questions
Does this test hurt?The test may cause brief discomfort or a tickling sensation when the swab touches the back of your throat. Some people may experience a mild gag reflex. The procedure only takes a few seconds.How long does it take to get results?Results are typically available within 2-5 days. Bacteria need time to grow in the laboratory before they can be identified. If bacteria are found, additional testing may be done to determine which antibiotics will be most effective.Do I need to prepare for the test?No special preparation is needed. However, avoid eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth immediately before the test, as this may affect the sample quality. Follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider.What do the results mean?A positive result means bacteria were found and identified. Your doctor will explain which bacteria were detected and recommend appropriate treatment. A negative result means no pathogenic bacteria were found, which could indicate a viral infection or that the infection is in a different location.
## Sources
3
1. 1Mayo Clinic Laboratories - Microbiology TestingSource
2. 2Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Healthcare-associated InfectionsSource
3. 3American Society for Microbiology - Clinical Microbiology ProceduresSource


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