Your Medical Test: What It Is, How It Is Done, and Why You May Need It
A laboratory test that identifies specific bacteria present in a blood sample through culture methods to diagnose infections.
{"This test grows and identifies bacteria from your blood sample","It helps doctors determine the cause of an infection","Results guide antibiotic treatment decisions","The test typically takes 2-5 days for final results","A positive result means bacteria were found in your blood"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 44850-6
- Short code
- BCXID8
- Synonyms
- Bacteria Spec Cult org #8
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof container appropriate for specimen type (e.g., blood culture bottles, sterile screw-cap tubes, transport swabs with transport medium)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 0 years
- Method
- culture
- CPT
- 87077
- SNOMED
- 428931000124101
- Specimen volume
- Variable depending on specimen type; refer to specific specimen collection guidelines (e.g., 1-10 mL for body fluids, 20-30 mL for blood cultures)
- Stability
- Transport to laboratory as soon as possible; most specimens should be processed within 2 hours of collection. If delayed, refrigerate at 2-8°C unless otherwise specified (except blood cultures, which should be kept at room temperature).
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–240 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test, and what does it check for?
Bacterial culture is a laboratory test where your blood sample is placed in special containers with nutrients that allow bacteria to grow. The lab then identifies the specific type of bacteria present. This test, referred to as 'Bacteria #8 identified in Specimen by Culture,' specifically looks for one particular type of bacterium in your blood sample that may be causing an infection.
How is this test performed, and what can I expect during the procedure?
A healthcare provider will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where it is placed in culture media and incubated at body temperature. Lab technicians monitor the sample daily, looking for bacterial growth. If bacteria grow, they are identified using various laboratory techniques.
Why might I need this test, and what can the results tell my doctor?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of a bacterial infection such as fever, chills, rapid breathing, or confusion. It is commonly used to diagnose bloodstream infections (bacteremia), sepsis, or infections that have spread throughout the body.
Reference range
No growth of pathogenic bacteria; results reported as organism identified with colony description and quantityN/A
Specimen collection should be performed prior to initiation of antimicrobial therapy when possible. For blood cultures, disinfect skin thoroughly with chlorhexidine or iodine. Collect specimen aseptically to avoid contamination with normal flora.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result indicates a bacterial infection in the bloodstream, which can lead to sepsis if untreated. Identifying the specific bacterium helps doctors choose the most effective antibiotic treatment. This test is crucial for managing serious infections and preventing complications. A negative result suggests no bacteria were detected at the time of testing, though repeat testing may be needed if infection is still suspected.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Do I need to fast before this test?
What happens if bacteria are found?
Is the test painful?
Can the test give false results?
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