Bacteriaspecenvircult
A laboratory test that grows and identifies bacteria from a collected specimen to determine if a bacterial infection is present.
{"This test cultures (grows) bacteria from your specimen in a laboratory","It helps identify what type of bacteria is causing an infection","Results help doctors choose the right antibiotic treatment","The test may take several days to complete","Results are reported as the specific bacteria identified or 'no growth'"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 14325-5
- Short code
- ENVBCID
- Synonyms
- Bacteria Spec Envir Cult
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile specimen container, culturette swab transport system, or environmental sampling device as appropriate for specimen type
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- environmental-culture
- CPT
- 87071
- SNOMED
- 441930004
- Specimen volume
- 1-10 mL or per environmental sampling protocol; swab specimens collected using appropriate transport medium
- Stability
- Transport to laboratory within 2 hours at room temperature for most specimens. Refrigerate at 2-8°C if transport is delayed beyond 2 hours. Maximum stability: 24 hours refrigerated for most bacterial cultures.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
A bacterial culture test is a laboratory procedure where a sample from your body (such as blood, urine, stool, wound pus, or respiratory mucus) is placed in a special environment that allows bacteria to grow. The test helps doctors identify whether bacteria are present and, if so, what specific type is causing an infection.
How is the test performed?
Your healthcare provider will collect a sample from the affected area of your body. This sample is then sent to a laboratory where it is placed in culture media (a substance that provides nutrients for bacteria to grow). The sample is incubated at body temperature for several days. Laboratory technicians then examine any bacteria that grow to identify their type.
Why might I need this test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of a bacterial infection, such as fever, pain, swelling, or discharge. The test helps confirm whether a bacterial infection is present and identifies the specific bacteria so the most effective treatment can be prescribed.
Reference range
No growth of pathogenic bacteria. Reportable organisms identified include environmental contaminants and clinically significant isolates as determined by laboratory protocol.N/A
No special patient preparation required. Ensure proper collection technique to prevent contamination from skin flora or environmental sources. For environmental specimens, collect using aseptic technique from the specified site.
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?
Does this test hurt?
What if no bacteria grow in the culture?
Do I need to prepare for this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2
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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