Bacteriaspeccult

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

A laboratory test that detects and identifies bacteria from a sample to diagnose infections.

Quick summary

{"A bacterial culture test identifies harmful bacteria causing infection","Results help doctors choose the right antibiotics for treatment","The test uses a sample from the infected area (such as blood, urine, or tissue)","Results typically take 24-72 hours to complete"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC: 6463-4
Short code: CULTID
Synonyms: Bacteria Spec Cult
Category: chemistry
Sample: serum
Container: Sterile, leak-proof container appropriate for specimen type (e.g., blood culture bottles for blood; sterile cup or swab transport system for urine, wound, sputum, tissue)
Units: N/A
Fasting: false
Population: adult
Sex: all
Age range: 0–120 years
Method: culture
CPT: 87071
SNOMED: 117000008
Specimen volume: Variable by specimen type: blood 8-10 mL per aerobic/anaerobic bottle set (adults); urine 1-50 mL; tissue as available; swabs single or flocked
Stability: Transport to laboratory as soon as possible. Blood culture bottles: room temperature up to 24 hours. Urine: room temperature up to 2 hours or refrigerated (2-8°C) up to 24 hours. Swabs in transport medium: room temperature up to 24-48 hours. Tissue: sterile saline at room temperature up to 1 hour.
Hemolysis max: 500
Lipemia max: 1000
Icterus max: 500
TAT: 24–240 hours
Order: routine

What is this test?

A bacterial culture test is a laboratory procedure that allows doctors to detect and identify bacteria causing an infection. The test involves placing a sample from your body (such as blood, urine, wound tissue, or respiratory secretions) onto special growth media that allow bacteria to multiply. This helps laboratory professionals see what types of bacteria are present and determine the best treatment.

Why do I need this test?

Your doctor may order a bacterial culture test if you have signs of a bacterial infection, such as fever, pain, swelling, or discharge. The test helps confirm whether you have a bacterial infection (as opposed to a viral infection) and identifies the specific bacteria causing the problem. This information is crucial for selecting the most effective antibiotic treatment.

How is the sample collected?

The type of sample needed depends on where your infection appears to be located. Common sample types include: blood (drawn from a vein), urine (collected in a sterile container), wound swabs, sputum (from the lungs), or tissue biopsies. Your healthcare provider will collect the appropriate sample following sterile procedures to prevent contamination.

What do the results mean?

A positive result means bacteria were found and identified in your sample, confirming a bacterial infection. The laboratory will report which specific bacteria were found. A negative result means no bacteria were detected, which could indicate a viral infection, that the infection is responding to treatment, or that the sample was collected too early in the infection. Your doctor will interpret these results along with your symptoms and other test findings.

Reference range

No growth of pathogenic bacteria; presence of normal flora reported as suchN/A

Specimen: serum

No special patient preparation required. Collect specimen prior to initiation of antimicrobial therapy whenever possible. For blood cultures, disinfect venipuncture site thoroughly with chlorhexidine or povidone-iodine. For urine cultures, clean-catch midstream collection is preferred; catheterized specimens should be obtained using aseptic technique.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results?

Preliminary results may be available in 24-48 hours, but complete identification and antibiotic sensitivity testing typically takes 48-72 hours. Some slow-growing bacteria may require longer incubation periods.

Does a negative result mean I don't have an infection?

Not necessarily. A negative result could mean the infection is in an early stage, you recently started antibiotics, the sample was improperly collected, or the infection is caused by viruses or fungi rather than bacteria. Your doctor will consider your symptoms and other test results when interpreting the findings.

Is the test painful?

Discomfort varies depending on the sample type. Blood draws may cause mild pain or bruising at the needle site. Urine collection is generally painless. Wound swabs may cause brief discomfort if the area is tender. Any discomfort is usually temporary.

Do I need to fast before this test?

Fasting is typically not required for bacterial culture tests, unless specifically instructed by your healthcare provider. Continue with your normal diet and medications unless told otherwise.

Sources

1
MedlinePlus - Bacterial Culture TestSource
2
Mayo Clinic - Blood CultureSource

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