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Bacteriaspecrespcultorg6

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

A laboratory test that identifies harmful bacteria in respiratory samples to help diagnose lung and airway infections.

Quick summary

{"This test detects and identifies bacteria causing respiratory infections","Sample is collected via sputum, throat swab, or bronchial wash","Results help doctors choose the right antibiotic treatment","Results typically take 2-5 days","A negative result does not always rule out infection"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
48565-6
Short code
RESPID6
Synonyms
Bacteria Spec Resp Cult org #6
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Sterile, leak-proof, screw-capped container; transport medium swab (e.g., Amies or Stuart's medium) for swab specimens; sterile sputum collection cup for expectorated specimens
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
0–120 years
Method
respiratory-culture
CPT
87077
SNOMED
415125006
Specimen volume
Minimum 1-2 mL for sputum; 5-10 mL for bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL); swabs should be fully saturated and placed in transport medium
Stability
Room temperature: 2 hours maximum for sputum and BAL specimens; refrigerated (2-8°C): up to 24 hours. Swab specimens in transport medium: stable up to 48 hours at room temperature or refrigerated. Prolonged delays may result in overgrowth of normal flora and decreased recovery of fastidious organisms.
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
48–168 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

A respiratory bacterial culture is a laboratory test that detects and identifies bacteria present in your respiratory system (nose, throat, airways, and lungs). When you have symptoms like persistent cough, difficulty breathing, or chest congestion, this test helps your doctor determine if a bacterial infection is the cause.

How is the sample collected?

The most common collection method is expectorating sputum (mucus from your lungs) into a sterile container first thing in the morning, before eating or drinking. Other methods include throat swab, nasal swab, or bronchoscopy (where a thin tube is passed through your nose or mouth into your lungs). Your healthcare provider will instruct you on the best method for your situation.

What happens in the laboratory?

The sample is placed in special growth conditions that allow bacteria to multiply. Technicians then examine the grown bacteria under a microscope and perform additional tests to identify the specific type. Sensitivity testing may also be done to determine which antibiotics can effectively treat the infection.

How should I prepare?

For sputum collection, rinse your mouth with water before collecting the sample to reduce contamination. Do not use mouthwash. Collect the sample in the morning before eating breakfast. Follow all specific instructions given by your healthcare provider.

Reference range

No growth of pathogenic bacteria identified. Normal respiratory flora may be reported as 'Mixed respiratory flora' or 'Normal flora.' Specific pathogens are reported by genus and species when identified.N/A

Specimen: serum

No special fasting required. Patient should rinse mouth with water prior to specimen collection (for sputum samples). For expectorated sputum, instruct patient to provide a deep cough specimen from the lower respiratory tract, preferably first morning specimen. Avoid saliva contamination. For bronchoscopy specimens, NPO status may be required per institutional protocol.

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?
Results typically take 2-5 days. Initial results may be available within 48 hours, but complete identification and sensitivity testing can take longer. Some rare bacteria require additional time to grow and identify.
Does a negative result mean I have no infection?
Not necessarily. A negative result could mean the infection is caused by a virus, that the bacteria are present but not detectable by standard methods, or that the sample was improperly collected. Your doctor will interpret results in context with your symptoms and other test findings.
Do I need to stop taking antibiotics before this test?
You should not stop taking prescribed antibiotics unless specifically instructed by your doctor. However, recent antibiotic use may affect test results. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions.
Is this test painful?
Sputum collection is painless. Throat or nasal swabs may cause brief discomfort. Bronchoscopy may cause throat numbness and mild soreness afterward but is generally well-tolerated with sedation.
  1. 1
    Mayo Clinic - Sputum CultureSource
  2. 2
    MedlinePlus - Respiratory CulturSource

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