Bacteriaprtcultorg6
This test analyzes fluid from the abdominal cavity to detect and identify any bacteria present, helping diagnose abdominal infections.
{"Identifies bacteria causing abdominal infections","Helps doctors choose the right antibiotics","Important for diagnosing conditions like spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP)","Results typically take 2-3 days","Sample is collected via a procedure called paracentesis"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 17963-0
- Short code
- PFCUL6
- Synonyms
- Bacteria Prt Cult org #6
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof container or blood culture bottle for peritoneal fluid; aerobic and anaerobic transport media acceptable
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- culture
- CPT
- 87077
- SNOMED
- 104202003
- Specimen volume
- Minimum 1-5 mL of peritoneal fluid; larger volumes preferred for optimal organism recovery
- Stability
- Transport to laboratory within 1 hour at room temperature; if delay exceeds 1 hour, refrigerate at 2-8°C for up to 24 hours; inoculate into blood culture bottles for extended stability
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 48–120 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
A peritoneal fluid culture is a laboratory test that examines fluid collected from the abdominal cavity (peritoneal fluid). The test is designed to detect and identify any bacteria that may be present in this fluid. When bacteria are found in peritoneal fluid, it typically indicates an infection within the abdominal cavity, which requires medical treatment.
How is the sample collected?
The sample is collected through a procedure called paracentesis (also known as abdominal tap). During this procedure, a healthcare provider inserts a thin needle through the skin into the abdominal cavity to withdraw fluid. The area is numbed with local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. This fluid is then sent to a laboratory for culture and analysis.
What happens in the laboratory?
In the lab, the peritoneal fluid is placed in special culture dishes and conditions that allow bacteria to grow. If bacteria are present, they will multiply and can be identified. The laboratory can also perform additional tests to determine which antibiotics will be most effective against the specific bacteria found (this is called antibiotic susceptibility testing).
Reference range
No growth of pathogenic bacteria; identification reported when clinically significant organisms are isolatedN/A
No fasting required. Specimen should be collected prior to initiation of antibiotic therapy when possible. Disinfect skin or site of paracentesis puncture prior to specimen collection to avoid contamination.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Why do I need this test?
How long does it take to get results?
Is the collection procedure painful?
What do the results mean?
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