Bacteriaplranaerobecult
This test detects and identifies anaerobic bacteria in fluid collected from the pleural space around the lungs.
{"A sample of pleural fluid is collected and tested for anaerobic bacteria","Anaerobic bacteria are germs that grow without oxygen","This test helps diagnose infections in the pleural space","Results help doctors choose the right antibiotic treatment","The test takes several days to complete"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 87942-9
- Short code
- PLEUAN
- Synonyms
- Bacteria Plr Anaerobe Cult
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof, anaerobic transport container or anaerobic blood culture bottle. Specimen must be protected from oxygen exposure. Alternative: sterile screw-cap tube with anaerobic transport medium.
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- anaerobic-culture
- CPT
- 87075
- SNOMED
- 399202002
- Specimen volume
- 3-10 mL of pleural fluid; minimum 1 mL for culture. Larger volumes (10-30 mL) preferred to enhance recovery of fastidious organisms.
- Stability
- Transport to laboratory immediately at room temperature (20-25°C). Specimen should be processed within 2 hours of collection. If delay is anticipated, inoculate into anaerobic transport medium or blood culture bottle and hold at room temperature; do not refrigerate.
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 48–240 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The pleural fluid anaerobic culture test is a laboratory test that looks for anaerobic bacteria in fluid taken from the pleural space—the area between your lungs and chest wall. Anaerobic bacteria are microorganisms that can survive and grow in environments without oxygen. This test helps doctors find out if an infection is caused by these bacteria.
Why do I need this test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of a pleural infection, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, fever, or if imaging tests show fluid buildup around your lungs. It helps determine the cause of the infection so the right treatment can be prescribed.
How is the sample collected?
A healthcare provider will collect pleural fluid using a procedure called thoracentesis. This involves inserting a thin needle through your chest wall to withdraw fluid from the pleural space. The area will be numbed with local anesthetic to reduce discomfort. The fluid sample is then sent to a laboratory for testing.
What happens to the sample in the lab?
In the laboratory, the fluid is placed in special containers that create an oxygen-free environment, which allows anaerobic bacteria to grow. Technicians monitor the sample for several days to see if bacteria appear. If bacteria grow, they are identified and tested to see which antibiotics will work best against them.
Are there any risks?
The main risks of thoracentesis include bleeding, infection, pneumothorax (collapsed lung), and discomfort at the needle site. These complications are rare, and your healthcare team will take steps to minimize them.
Reference range
No anaerobic bacteria isolated. Normal pleural fluid is sterile; presence of anaerobic organisms indicates infection such as empyema, lung abscess with pleural extension, or aspiration pneumonia with pleural involvement.N/A
No fasting required. Patient should be prepared for thoracentesis following standard aseptic technique. Discontinue systemic antibiotics prior to collection when clinically feasible, but do not delay collection in critically ill patients. Inform laboratory of current or recent antimicrobial therapy.
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?
Does a negative result mean I don't have an infection?
What happens if anaerobic bacteria are found?
Do I need to prepare for this test?
Is the procedure painful?
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