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Cefepime Blood Culture (Qualitative) with Microscopic Detection of Vancomycin Resistance

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

This test checks your blood for the presence of the antibiotic cefepime and evaluates whether certain bacteria may be resistant to vancomycin, a common antibiotic used to treat serious infections.

Quick summary

["Helps identify antibiotic resistance patterns in infections, guiding treatment decisions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
101502-3
Short code
CEF-BCMIC
Synonyms
Cefepime Bld Pos MIC.VOC det
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Positive blood culture bottle (aerobic or anaerobic) confirmed positive by continuous monitoring blood culture system
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
mic-voc-detection
CPT
87186
SNOMED
36354002
Specimen volume
N/A - testing performed directly from flagged positive blood culture broth
Stability
Process positive blood culture as soon as possible after positivity flag. If delayed, blood culture broth is stable at room temperature for up to 8 hours or refrigerated (2-8°C) for up to 24 hours before subculture and susceptibility testing.
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
12–48 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Measures

The test detects cefepime, an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections. It also includes microscopic examination to assess vancomycin resistance markers in isolated bacteria, which may indicate potential resistance to vancomycin.

Why It’s Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have a suspected bacterial infection, especially if they suspect resistance to vancomycin or cefepime. It helps determine the most effective antibiotic treatment.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is drawn into a special tube containing antibiotics to prevent bacterial growth. The sample is then sent to a lab for culture and microscopic analysis to identify bacteria and assess antibiotic susceptibility.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but inform your provider about any medications you’re taking, including antibiotics, to avoid false results. Avoid eating or drinking anything for a short time before the blood draw if instructed.

Reference range

Interpretive categories per CLSI M100 guidelines: Susceptible (S), Susceptible-Dose Dependent (SDD), Intermediate (I), or Resistant (R). MIC breakpoints vary by organism and clinical infection site.N/A

Specimen: whole-blood

No special patient preparation required. Specimen should be collected prior to next antibiotic dose when possible to avoid false-susceptibility results. Ensure proper skin antisepsis and aseptic collection technique to minimize contamination.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Positive results for cefepime in the blood culture may indicate an infection requiring treatment with cefepime. Microscopic detection of vancomycin resistance markers helps healthcare providers choose the best antibiotic to prevent worsening infection or antibiotic resistance.

Short name

Cefepime MIC for Vancomycin Resistance Screening

Frequently asked questions

How long will it take to get results?
Results typically take 3–5 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your provider will contact you once results are available.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result means cefepime was detected in your blood, suggesting an active bacterial infection. Microscopic findings may indicate potential vancomycin resistance, guiding further treatment decisions.
Can I take antibiotics before this test?
No, do not take antibiotics unless instructed by your provider. Taking antibiotics before testing may interfere with the results and delay accurate diagnosis.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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