Bacteriatissaerobecultorg4
A laboratory test that identifies bacteria in tissue samples using aerobic culture methods to diagnose infections.
{"This test detects and identifies bacteria in tissue samples","It helps doctors determine the cause of infections","Results guide appropriate antibiotic treatment","Sample is collected during surgery or biopsy","Results typically available in 2-5 days"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 17906-9
- Short code
- BTISC4
- Synonyms
- Bacteria Tiss Aerobe Cult org #4
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof container without preservatives; tissue should be placed in sterile saline if transport is delayed. Anaerobic transport medium is not required for aerobic culture only.
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 0 years
- Method
- aerobic-culture
- CPT
- 87071
- SNOMED
- 441900009
- Specimen volume
- A pea-sized piece of tissue (approximately 0.5-1 cm³) or as much tissue as clinically obtainable
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 24 hours. Do not freeze. Transport to laboratory as soon as possible for optimal organism viability.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 48–168 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The Tissue Aerobic Bacterial Culture test is a laboratory procedure used to detect and identify bacteria present in tissue samples. The test involves placing the tissue sample in a special environment with oxygen (aerobic conditions) that allows bacteria to grow. Once bacteria grow, laboratories can identify the specific type and perform sensitivity testing to determine which antibiotics will be most effective.
Why is this test performed?
Your doctor may order this test if you have a suspected bacterial infection in tissue, such as skin infections, wound infections, abscesses, or infections in internal organs. The test helps confirm whether a bacterial infection is present and identifies the specific bacteria causing the problem, which is essential for choosing the right treatment.
How is the sample collected?
A healthcare provider collects a small tissue sample during a surgical procedure, biopsy, or from an infected wound. The sample is placed in a sterile container and sent to the laboratory for analysis. The collection method depends on the location of the suspected infection.
How to interpret your results?
Results will show whether bacteria grew from the tissue sample. A positive result indicates that bacteria were found and identifies the specific type. A negative result means no bacteria were detected under aerobic conditions. Your doctor will combine these results with your clinical symptoms to make a diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.
What are the risks?
The risks are minimal and mainly relate to the tissue collection procedure itself. These may include slight bleeding, temporary discomfort, or a small risk of infection at the collection site. Your healthcare provider will discuss specific risks based on how the sample is obtained.
Reference range
No growth of aerobic pathogenic bacteria identified. Normal/commensal skin flora may be reported as such. Results reported as specific organism identification (genus and species) for up to 4 isolates.N/A
No fasting required. Tissue specimens should be collected aseptically prior to antibiotic administration whenever possible. Discontinue topical antibiotics or antiseptic solutions at the collection site for at least 24 hours prior to sampling if clinically feasible.
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 a negative result mean there is no infection?
Do I need to fast before this test?
What happens if bacteria are found?
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