Bacteriasnvaerobecult
A laboratory test that analyzes joint fluid to detect and identify aerobic bacteria causing infection.
{"This test looks for bacterial infections in joint fluid","It helps diagnose septic arthritis and guiding antibiotic treatment","Sample is collected by joint aspiration (arthrocentesis)","Results typically take 2-5 days","Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent joint damage"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 90278-3
- Short code
- SYNAC
- Synonyms
- Bacteria Snv Aerobe Cult
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- fluid
- Container
- Sterile screw-cap container or sterile blood culture bottle (for large volumes); aerobic and anaerobic culture transport medium
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- aerobic-culture
- CPT
- 87070
- SNOMED
- 104183004
- Specimen volume
- 1-5 mL of synovial fluid (larger volumes preferred for optimal culture yield); minimum 0.5 mL acceptable for pediatric samples
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2 hours; refrigerated (2-8°C): 24 hours. If inoculated into blood culture bottles, extended stability per bottle manufacturer specifications. Do not freeze.
- Hemolysis max
- 300
- TAT
- 48–120 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
Synovial fluid aerobic bacterial culture is a laboratory test that examines fluid from a joint to detect and identify aerobic bacteria. Synovial fluid is a viscous liquid that lubricates joints, and when bacteria infect this fluid, it can cause serious conditions like septic arthritis. This test helps doctors determine if a bacterial infection is present and identify the specific bacteria so appropriate antibiotics can be prescribed.
How is the sample collected?
A healthcare provider will perform a procedure called arthrocentesis (joint aspiration). They will clean the skin over the affected joint, numb the area with local anesthetic, and then insert a needle into the joint to withdraw fluid. This procedure is typically done in a doctor's office or hospital setting. The collected fluid is then sent to a laboratory for culture and analysis.
What happens in the laboratory?
In the lab, the synovial fluid sample is placed in special culture media that support the growth of aerobic bacteria. The sample is incubated and monitored for several days. If bacteria grow, laboratory technicians can identify the specific type and perform sensitivity testing to determine which antibiotics will be most effective against the infection.
How to prepare for the test?
No special preparation is usually needed. Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, especially antibiotics or blood thinners. You may be asked to stop certain medications before the procedure. Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the joint being tested.
Reference range
No growth of pathogenic aerobic bacteria. Results reported as organism identification (genus and species) with colony count or semiquantitative grading when applicable. Normal synovial fluid is sterile.N/A
No fasting required. Joint aspiration should be performed under sterile conditions by a qualified healthcare provider. The skin overlying the joint must be properly disinfected prior to arthrocentesis to minimize contamination. Inform the laboratory of current or recent antibiotic therapy.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings2
Frequently asked questions
Is joint aspiration painful?
How long does it take to get results?
What do positive results mean?
Can the test give false negative results?
What are the risks of joint aspiration?
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