Understanding Your Laboratory Test: A Patient's Guide to What It Is and Why It Matters
This test checks for aerobic bacteria in the fluid around your abdominal organs to help diagnose infections.
{"A sample of fluid from your abdomen is collected and tested for bacteria","The test helps diagnose peritoneal infections like spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP)","Results typically take 2-3 days as bacteria need time to grow","A positive result means an infection is present and needs treatment","Your doctor will determine treatment based on the specific bacteria found"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 90281-7
- Short code
- PERIBC
- Synonyms
- Bacteria Prt Aerobe Cult
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof container without preservatives; aerobic and anaerobic blood culture bottles may also be used for fluid inoculation at bedside
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 0 years
- Method
- aerobic-culture
- CPT
- 87077
- SNOMED
- 441829007
- Specimen volume
- 5-10 mL of peritoneal fluid; minimum 1 mL accepted; larger volumes (10-50 mL) preferred to maximize pathogen recovery
- Stability
- Room temperature: deliver to laboratory within 2 hours of collection. If delayed, refrigerate at 2-8°C for up to 24 hours. Inoculated blood culture bottles: stable per manufacturer instructions.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 48–120 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test, and what does it measure in my body?
The peritoneal fluid aerobic culture test is a laboratory test that looks for aerobic (oxygen-loving) bacteria in the fluid that surrounds your abdominal organs. This fluid is called peritoneal fluid. The test involves taking a sample of this fluid and placing it in a special environment that allows bacteria to grow, so they can be identified.
Why might my doctor recommend that I get this test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of a peritoneal infection, such as abdominal pain, fever, or a swollen abdomen. It is commonly used to diagnose conditions like spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP), which is an infection of the peritoneal fluid that can occur in people with liver disease. The test helps your doctor identify the specific bacteria causing the infection so they can prescribe the right antibiotic treatment.
How will my sample be collected, and what can I expect during the process?
The sample is collected through a procedure called paracentesis. During this procedure, your doctor inserts a thin needle through your skin into the abdominal cavity to withdraw a small amount of peritoneal fluid. The area will be cleaned and numbed with local anesthetic to minimize discomfort. You may feel some pressure or mild pain during the procedure.
What do my test results mean, and how will they help guide my care?
Results are usually available within 2-3 days. A negative result means no aerobic bacteria were found in your peritoneal fluid. A positive result indicates that bacteria are growing in the fluid, which means you have a bacterial infection. The test will also identify the specific type of bacteria, which helps your doctor choose the most effective antibiotic.
Are there any risks or side effects I should know about before this test?
The main risks of paracentesis include bleeding, infection, and puncturing nearby organs. These complications are rare. You may experience some soreness or bruising at the puncture site. Your doctor will discuss these risks with you before the procedure.
Reference range
No growth of pathogenic bacteria. Normal peritoneal fluid is sterile. Any identification of aerobic bacteria is considered clinically significant and reported.N/A
Standard aseptic technique required for peritoneal fluid collection via paracentesis or peritoneal dialysis catheter. Skin disinfection with chlorhexidine or povidone-iodine is mandatory. Patient should be in supine position during collection. Informed consent required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is primarily used to diagnose infections in the abdominal cavity. It is especially important for patients with liver cirrhosis who are at risk for spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP). Early detection and treatment of peritoneal infections can prevent serious complications like sepsis. The specific bacteria identified through culture also helps guide antibiotic therapy, ensuring patients receive the most appropriate treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Does the test hurt?
How long does it take to get results?
What happens if my test is positive?
Do I need to prepare for the test?
What is the difference between aerobic and anaerobic culture?
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