Bacteriapltsbpuanaerobecult
This test checks platelet blood products for harmful bacteria through anaerobic culture to ensure blood transfusion safety.
{"Detects bacteria in platelet blood components before transfusion","Uses anaerobic culture methods to find bacteria that grow without oxygen","Helps prevent bacterial infections from blood transfusions","Part of routine quality control for blood product safety","Performed by blood banks before releasing platelet products"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 91062-0
- Short code
- PLTANR
- Synonyms
- Bacteria Plts BPU Anaerobe Cult
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Sterile blood product bag or sterile anaerobic culture vials/bottles appropriate for anaerobic bacteria
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- anaerobic-culture
- CPT
- 87075
- SNOMED
- 44170007
- Specimen volume
- 2-5 mL of platelet product transferred to anaerobic culture vials; volume determined by blood bank protocol
- Stability
- Platelets must be cultured as soon as possible after collection or unit access; inoculate anaerobic culture vials immediately. Once inoculated, culture vials are stable at room temperature (20-25°C) until incubation. Anaerobic culture incubation: up to 7-14 days depending on protocol.
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 48–336 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
This laboratory test detects and identifies bacteria in platelet blood products using anaerobic culture methods. Platelets are blood components essential for blood clotting, and they are stored at room temperature, which creates an environment where certain bacteria can grow. This test is a critical safety screening performed by blood banks to ensure that platelet transfusions do not introduce bacterial infections to patients.
How is the test performed?
A sample is taken from a platelet blood product unit and placed in special culture bottles that support anaerobic bacteria growth (bacteria that can live without oxygen). The sample is incubated and monitored over several days to detect any bacterial growth. If bacteria are found, they are identified to determine the specific type of microorganism present.
Why is this test important?
Bacterial contamination of blood products is a serious concern in transfusion medicine. Platelet products are particularly vulnerable because they are stored at room temperature (20-24°C) for up to 5-7 days, providing ideal conditions for bacterial growth. This test helps prevent transfusion-transmitted bacterial infections, which can cause severe illness or even death in vulnerable patients.
Reference range
No anaerobic bacteria identified (culture negative for anaerobic organisms)N/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Will I receive this test as a patient?
What happens if bacteria are found?
How long does the test take?
What types of bacteria can be detected?
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