Bacteriatissanaerobecultorg3
This test identifies anaerobic bacteria (bacteria that grow without oxygen) in tissue samples to diagnose infections.
{"The test cultures tissue samples to find anaerobic bacteria that cause infections","Anaerobic bacteria thrive in environments without oxygen, often causing deep tissue infections","Results help doctors choose the right antibiotics to treat the infection","The test involves taking a small tissue sample and growing bacteria in a special oxygen-free environment","Positive results confirm a bacterial infection and guide treatment decisions"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 17924-2
- Short code
- ANATISS3
- Synonyms
- Bacteria Tiss Anaerobe Cult org #3
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof anaerobic transport container or anaerobic transport system (e.g., Anaerobic Transport Medium (ATM), Port-A-Cul vial, ESwab in Amies medium). Tissue specimens should be submitted in a sterile container with anaerobic transport medium to maintain viability of obligate anaerobes.
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- anaerobic-culture
- CPT
- 87075
- SNOMED
- 441439008
- Specimen volume
- Adequate tissue sample, minimum 1-2 cm³ or a representative portion of tissue. Larger tissue samples (several grams) preferred when possible to maximize recovery of anaerobic organisms.
- Stability
- Specimens for anaerobic culture should be transported to the laboratory within 1-2 hours of collection at room temperature. If delayed transport is anticipated, specimens should be stored at room temperature (20-25°C) in anaerobic transport medium and delivered within 24 hours. Do NOT refrigerate or freeze anaerobic culture specimens.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 48–168 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The Anaerobic Bacteria Culture test is a laboratory procedure that identifies specific bacteria called anaerobes in tissue samples. Unlike most bacteria, anaerobic bacteria can survive and multiply without oxygen. This test is crucial for diagnosing infections caused by these bacteria, which often occur in deep tissues, wounds, or areas with poor blood supply.
During the test, a healthcare provider collects a small tissue sample from the suspected infection site. The sample is then placed in a special culture environment that contains no oxygen, allowing anaerobic bacteria to grow. Laboratory technicians monitor the culture over several days to identify any bacteria present and determine their type.
Reference range
No anaerobic bacteria isolated (Negative). Positive results reported with genus and species identification of up to 3 anaerobic organisms. Interpretation provided in conjunction with Gram stain findings and clinical correlation.N/A
No fasting required. Specimen should be collected prior to initiation of antimicrobial therapy whenever possible. Discontinue antiseptic preparation at the collection site and avoid contamination with normal flora. For surgical tissue specimens, collect from the active site of infection. Discontinue topical antibiotics at least 48 hours before collection if clinically feasible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Anaerobic bacterial infections can cause serious conditions including abscesses, wound infections, bone infections (osteomyelitis), and infections following surgery. These infections often produce foul-smelling discharge and can lead to tissue damage if left untreated. This test helps doctors identify the exact bacteria causing the infection, allowing them to prescribe targeted antibiotic treatment rather than using broad-spectrum antibiotics.
The results of this culture test are clinically significant because anaerobic bacteria often require specific antibiotics that are different from those used for aerobic bacteria. Proper identification ensures effective treatment and helps prevent complications or recurrence of the infection.
Frequently asked questions
Why is anaerobic culture different from regular bacterial culture?
Does this test hurt?
How long does it take to get results?
What happens if the culture is negative?
Sources
- 1
- 2
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