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Bacteriavpshuntcult

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

This test identifies bacteria in a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt to diagnose infections.

Quick summary

{"A VP shunt is a tube that drains fluid from the brain to the abdomen","This test cultures fluid from the shunt to find bacteria causing infection","Infection is a serious complication that requires prompt treatment","Symptoms include fever, headache, and shunt malfunction signs","Treatment typically involves antibiotics and sometimes shunt replacement"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
74356-7
Short code
VPSHCULT
Synonyms
Bacteria VP shunt Cult
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Sterile, leak-proof container (e.g., sterile screw-cap tube or anaerobic transport vial). For small volumes, a sterile cryovial is acceptable. Specimen must be transported to the microbiology laboratory promptly.
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 0 years
Method
culture
CPT
87075
SNOMED
441930004
Specimen volume
Minimum 1 mL of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or shunt aspirate. Optimal volume is 2-5 mL when feasible to maximize culture yield.
Stability
Specimen should be processed immediately upon receipt. If immediate processing is not possible, store at room temperature (20-25°C) for no longer than 2 hours. Do not refrigerate, as this may reduce recovery of fastidious organisms.
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
48–120 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Bacteria Identified in VP Shunt Culture test is a laboratory test that detects and identifies bacteria in a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt. A VP shunt is a medical device placed in the brain to drain excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in patients with hydrocephalus. This culture test helps doctors determine if the shunt has become infected, which is a serious complication requiring immediate medical attention.

How is the test performed?

A healthcare provider collects a sample of fluid from the VP shunt system, typically by inserting a needle into the shunt reservoir or collecting drainage fluid. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where it is placed in special culture media to allow any bacteria present to grow. Laboratory technicians then identify the specific type of bacteria to help guide treatment decisions.

Why is this test important?

VP shunt infections are a common complication, occurring in about 3-15% of shunt placements. Early detection of infection is crucial because infections can lead to serious problems including meningitis, brain abscesses, and shunt malfunction. Identifying the specific bacteria helps doctors choose the most effective antibiotics and determine the best treatment approach.

Reference range

No growth of pathogenic bacteria isolated. Identification of organism(s) reported when present (e.g., Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus, Propionibacterium acnes, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Corynebacterium species).N/A

Specimen: serum

This procedure requires strict aseptic technique. Shunt tap or intraoperative shunt fluid aspiration should be performed by a qualified neurosurgeon or trained clinician. Skin over the shunt reservoir or catheter site must be disinfected with chlorhexidine or povidone-iodine and allowed to dry before specimen collection. No patient fasting is required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

What are the symptoms of a VP shunt infection?
Common symptoms include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, redness or swelling along the shunt tract, and changes in mental status. Patients may also experience symptoms of shunt malfunction such as increased head size (in infants), drowsiness, or vision problems. Any of these symptoms should prompt immediate medical evaluation.
How is a VP shunt infection treated?
Treatment typically involves intravenous antibiotics for 10-14 days, often starting with broad-spectrum antibiotics until the specific bacteria is identified. The doctor may also need to remove or replace the infected shunt. In some cases, an external ventricular drain (EVD) may be placed temporarily to drain CSF while treating the infection.
Can a VP shunt infection be prevented?
While not all infections can be prevented, surgeons use sterile techniques during shunt placement and may administer preventive antibiotics. Patients and caregivers should watch for signs of infection and attend follow-up appointments as directed. Maintaining good hygiene and promptly reporting any symptoms of infection is essential.
How long does it take to get results?
Culture results typically take 2-5 days, as bacteria need time to grow in the laboratory. Preliminary results may be available sooner, with final identification and antibiotic sensitivity results coming later.
  1. 1
    Hydrocephalus Association - VP Shunt InfectionsSource
  2. 2
    American Association of Neurological Surgeons - HydrocephalusSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic - HydrocephalusSource

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