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Pelvic Abscess Fluid Culture with Sensitivity Testing (Drained via Catheter)

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

This test checks for bacteria in fluid collected from a pelvic abscess and helps determine the best antibiotics to treat your infection.

Quick summary

["Identifies infection source and guides tailored antibiotic treatment to prevent complications."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
42286-5
Short code
CT Guided Pelvis Absc drain+cath place
Synonyms
CT Guided Pelvis 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 recommend this test if you have symptoms like persistent pelvic pain, fever, or signs of infection after treatment for a pelvic abscess. It helps confirm the presence of bacteria and guides antibiotic choices to prevent spread or recurrence.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll likely have a catheter inserted to drain fluid from the abscess. The sample is then sent to the lab for culture and sensitivity testing. Pain or mild discomfort may occur, but it’s usually brief.

What the Test Results Mean

Positive results identify specific bacteria causing the infection. Sensitivity testing shows which antibiotics are most effective against those bacteria, helping your doctor choose the right treatment.

Common Findings and Next Steps

If bacteria are found, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics targeting those organisms. If no bacteria are detected, further evaluation may be needed to address other possible causes of your symptoms.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Pelvic Abscess Fluid Culture & Antibiotics Sensitivity

Frequently asked questions

What does it mean if bacteria are identified?
Identifying the specific bacteria helps your healthcare provider select the most effective antibiotic to treat your infection, reducing the risk of recurrence or complications like sepsis.
What if no bacteria are found?
If no bacteria are detected, additional tests may be needed to investigate other causes of your symptoms, such as inflammation, structural issues, or other infections.
How long will it take to get results?
Culture results typically take 3–5 business days, while sensitivity testing may take an additional 2–3 days, depending on lab processing times.
  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