Bacteriaspeccultorg3
A bacterial culture test identifies harmful bacteria in your sample to help diagnose infections.
{"The test detects and identifies bacteria causing infection","Results help doctors choose the right antibiotic treatment","Sample collection is quick and may cause mild discomfort","Results typically take 2-5 days to complete","Follow your doctor's instructions before the test"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 44842-3
- Short code
- BACTID3
- Synonyms
- Bacteria Spec Cult org #3
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof container appropriate for specimen type (e.g., sterile cup, swab transport system with Amies or Stuart medium, blood culture bottles, or anaerobic transport media)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–999 years
- Method
- culture
- CPT
- 87077
- SNOMED
- 441622007
- Specimen volume
- Variable by specimen source; minimum 0.5-1 mL for fluid specimens; tissue specimens should be at least pea-sized when possible
- Stability
- Process specimens as soon as possible; refrigerate at 2-8°C for most specimens if processing is delayed. Hold times vary by specimen type: urine up to 24 hours refrigerated; blood culture bottles per manufacturer instructions; swabs in transport media up to 48 hours at room temperature
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–168 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
A bacterial culture test is a laboratory procedure that detects and identifies bacteria present in a sample collected from your body. The sample is placed in a special environment that allows bacteria to grow, making it possible for lab technicians to identify the specific type of bacteria causing your infection.
How is the sample collected?
Depending on your symptoms, your healthcare provider will collect the appropriate sample. This may include blood, urine, sputum, wound tissue, or stool. The collection method varies—some samples require a simple swab, while others need a needle draw or catheter collection. Your doctor will instruct you on any specific preparations needed.
What happens after sample collection?
The sample is sent to a laboratory where it is placed in culture dishes or bottles containing nutrients that support bacterial growth. Lab technicians monitor the sample over several days, observing what types of bacteria emerge. If bacteria grow, additional tests determine which antibiotics will be most effective against them.
Are there any risks?
The risks are minimal and depend on the collection method. Blood draws may cause slight bruising or soreness at the needle site. Swab collection is generally painless. Serious complications are rare. Inform your healthcare provider if you have any bleeding disorders or allergies to antiseptic solutions.
Reference range
No growth of clinically significant bacteria; normal flora or no growth reported depending on specimen sourceN/A
No fasting required. Specimen collection technique varies by source; collect prior to initiation of antimicrobial therapy when possible. Follow site-specific aseptic collection protocols to avoid contamination
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?
Do I need to fast before this test?
What does a positive result mean?
What does a negative result mean?
Can I take antibiotics before this test?
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