Skip to content

Bacteriaspecanaerobecultorg2

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test identifies specific types of anaerobic bacteria (bacteria that grow without oxygen) in a laboratory culture of your sample.

Quick summary

{"The test detects anaerobic bacteria that can cause infections in deep tissues","Results help doctors choose the right antibiotics for treatment","Anaerobic infections often occur after surgery or in deep wounds"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
44843-1
Short code
ANC2ID
Synonyms
Bacteria Spec Anaerobe Cult org #2
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Anaerobic transport system (e.g., Anaerobic Transport Medium, Port-a-Cul vial, or ESwab in anaerobic transport); do not use containers with formalin or preservatives
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
0–120 years
Method
anaerobic-culture
CPT
87075
SNOMED
442506007
Specimen volume
Minimum 1 mL of fluid or 1 gram of tissue; pus/aspirate samples should fill anaerobic transport container to maintain appropriate conditions
Stability
Room temperature: process within 2 hours of collection; hold at room temperature in anaerobic transport medium for up to 24 hours. Refrigeration is generally not recommended as anaerobes are sensitive to cold temperatures
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
48–240 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Anaerobic Bacteria Culture test is a laboratory procedure that grows and identifies specific anaerobic bacteria from your specimen. Anaerobic bacteria are microorganisms that do not need oxygen to survive and can cause serious infections, especially in deep body tissues, wounds, or areas with poor blood supply. By identifying exactly which bacteria are present, doctors can determine the most effective treatment approach.

Reference range

No anaerobic bacteria isolated; Normal flora reported as appropriate for specimen sourceN/A

Specimen: serum

Specimen should be collected prior to initiation of antimicrobial therapy when possible. For deep tissue or aspirates, decontaminate skin or mucosal surface prior to collection. Transport specimen to laboratory immediately under anaerobic conditions to ensure organism viability

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

How is the specimen collected?
The specimen depends on the type of infection suspected. It may be collected from a wound, tissue, fluid aspirate, or other site. Proper collection is important to avoid contamination with oxygen, which can kill anaerobic bacteria.
How long does it take to get results?
Anaerobic culture results typically take 2-7 days because these bacteria grow slowly in the laboratory. Additional time may be needed for complete identification and antibiotic sensitivity testing.
Does this test hurt?
The discomfort depends on how the specimen is collected. Some collection methods may cause brief discomfort, but the laboratory analysis itself does not affect the patient.
What do positive results mean?
A positive result means anaerobic bacteria were found in your specimen, confirming an anaerobic infection. This helps your doctor prescribe specific antibiotics that work against these bacteria.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - Anaerobic InfectionsSource
  2. 2
    May Clinic - Wound InfectionSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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