Subphrenic Abscess Culture (Blood Culture from Abdominal Site)
This test checks for bacteria in fluid around the diaphragm (subphrenic space) using a blood culture procedure. It helps diagnose infections like abscesses.
["Blood cultures detect infections that may require antibiotics or other treatments."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 43502-4
- Short code
- CT Guide Subphrenic Absc drn+cath place
- Synonyms
- CT Guide Subphrenic Absc drn+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 Is This Test Done?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, pain, or swelling in the upper abdomen or chest area, or if tests suggest an infection in the fluid around your diaphragm. It’s also used to confirm suspected subphrenic abscesses, which can occur after surgeries, trauma, or complications from conditions like pancreatitis or liver disease.
What Does the Test Involve?
A small tube (catheter) is inserted into the fluid around your diaphragm under imaging guidance. Blood samples are drawn from this fluid and sent to the lab for culture testing. The lab will look for bacterial growth over several days to identify any infections.
Preparation and Risks
No special preparation is needed unless your doctor instructs otherwise. Possible risks include mild discomfort, bruising, or infection at the insertion site. Rarely, complications like bleeding or fluid leakage may occur.
What Are Common Results?
If no bacteria are found, the result will be negative. If bacteria are detected, it confirms an infection, and your doctor will work with you to determine the best treatment, such as antibiotics.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results for bacteria in the subphrenic fluid indicate a subphrenic abscess or other infection. This can lead to complications like sepsis, organ damage, or spread of infection. Early treatment with antibiotics and sometimes drainage of the abscess is crucial to prevent serious health issues.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
What if I have a mild infection but no symptoms?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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