Bacteriaplacentaaerobecult

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

This test identifies bacteria present in placental tissue through aerobic culture to detect infections that may affect pregnancy outcomes.

Quick summary

{"The test detects harmful bacteria in the placenta that may cause pregnancy complications","It helps doctors diagnose infections that could affect mother and baby","Results guide treatment decisions including antibiotic therapy","Sample is collected during delivery or pregnancy termination","Positive results indicate placental infection requiring medical attention"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC: 617-1
Short code: PLACAC
Synonyms: Bacteria Placenta Aerobe Cult
Category: chemistry
Sample: serum
Container: Sterile transport container or transport swab system (e.g., Amies or Stuart's medium). Sealed leak-proof container recommended for tissue specimens.
Units: N/A
Fasting: false
Population: adult
Sex: female
Age range: 18–65 years
Method: aerobic-culture
CPT: 87070
SNOMED: 441926007
Specimen volume: Placental tissue: 2-5 grams collected from subchorionic and basal plate regions; or swabs from placental surface.
Stability: Room temperature: 2 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 24 hours; do not freeze.
Hemolysis max: 500
Lipemia max: 1000
Icterus max: 500
TAT: 48–168 hours
Order: routine

What is this test?

The Placental Bacterial Culture test is a laboratory test that detects and identifies bacteria growing in placental tissue through aerobic (oxygen-requiring) culture methods. The placenta is the organ that connects the mother to the baby and provides nutrients and oxygen. When bacteria infect the placenta (a condition called chorioamnionitis), it can pose serious risks to both the mother and the developing baby.

How is the sample collected?

The placental tissue sample is typically collected after delivery (vaginal or cesarean) or during pregnancy termination. The healthcare provider takes a small piece of placental tissue, usually from areas that appear abnormal or inflamed. The sample is placed in a sterile container and sent to the laboratory for culture and analysis.

What happens in the laboratory?

In the lab, the placental tissue is processed and placed in special growth media that supports aerobic bacterial growth. The sample is incubated at body temperature for several days. If bacteria are present, they will multiply and form colonies. Technicians then identify the specific types of bacteria and may perform additional tests to determine which antibiotics would be most effective for treatment.

Why might I need this test?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have signs or symptoms of placental infection, such as fever, abdominal pain, or uterine tenderness. It may also be recommended following miscarriage, preterm labor, or stillbirth to determine if infection was a contributing factor. The test helps identify the cause of pregnancy complications and guides appropriate treatment.

Reference range

No growth of pathogenic bacteria. Normal placental tissue is sterile; any growth of aerobic organisms is considered clinically significant and reported with identification.N/A

Specimen: serum

Specimen collected under sterile conditions during delivery, cesarean section, or placental examination. Avoid contamination with vaginal or skin flora. No fasting required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive result mean my baby is infected?

Not necessarily. While placental infection (chorioamnionitis) can sometimes affect the baby, many babies are born healthy even when bacteria are found in the placenta. However, any positive result requires careful monitoring and often antibiotic treatment for both mother and newborn as a preventive measure.

How long does it take to get results?

Results typically take 2-5 days. Initial growth may be visible within 24-48 hours, but complete identification and antibiotic sensitivity testing can take longer. Some slow-growing organisms may require extended incubation.

Will I need antibiotics if the test is positive?

Yes, most likely. If bacteria are identified in the placenta, antibiotic treatment is typically recommended for the mother to treat the infection and reduce risks of complications. Your newborn may also receive antibiotics as a preventive measure, depending on the clinical situation.

Can this test detect all types of infections?

This test specifically looks for aerobic (oxygen-requiring) bacteria. Some infections are caused by anaerobic bacteria (bacteria that grow without oxygen), viruses, fungi, or other organisms that require different detection methods. Your healthcare provider may order additional tests if these are suspected.

Does a negative result mean there is no infection?

Not necessarily. A negative result may mean no aerobic bacteria were detected, but other organisms or non-infectious causes of your symptoms are still possible. Some bacteria are difficult to culture, and infections may have been treated with antibiotics before sample collection.

Sources

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