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Kidney Abscess Drainage Fluid Culture (with Antibiogram) and Gram Stain

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

This test checks for bacteria in fluid collected from a kidney abscess drainage procedure and identifies which, if any, bacteria are present. It also helps determine if antibiotics are needed.

Quick summary

["This test helps guide treatment by identifying infections and potential antibiotic resistance in kidney abscess fluid."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
42285-7
Short code
CT Guided Kidney Absc drain+cath place
Synonyms
CT Guided Kidney Absc drain+cath place
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ct
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of a kidney abscess, such as fever, pain in your side or back, or signs of infection after a drainage procedure. It helps confirm whether fluid collected during drainage contains bacteria and assists in choosing the best antibiotic treatment.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is typically needed. If you’re on antibiotics, your provider may advise stopping them temporarily to ensure accurate results. Always follow your provider’s instructions.

What Happens During the Test

A small amount of fluid is collected from the drainage tube placed in your kidney abscess. The fluid is then sent to a lab for culture (to grow bacteria) and Gram stain (to examine bacteria under a microscope). Results can take several days to weeks.

What the Results Mean

Positive results for bacteria indicate an infection, guiding antibiotic selection. Negative results mean no bacteria were found, but this doesn’t always mean the infection is fully cleared. Follow-up may be needed to monitor healing.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Kidney abscess fluid culture

Frequently asked questions

How long will I need to wait for results?
Results can take several days to a couple of weeks, depending on bacterial growth. Your healthcare provider will discuss findings with you during follow-up visits.
Can I take antibiotics before the test?
If you’re prescribed antibiotics, your provider may advise stopping them temporarily to improve test accuracy. Always check with your provider before stopping any medication.
What if the test shows no bacteria?
Even if no bacteria are found, the infection may still be present. Your provider may recommend additional imaging or follow-up tests to ensure the abscess is fully cleared.
  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