Microbiological Culture and Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (with Patient Demographics)
This test checks for the presence of bacteria, fungi, or viruses in your body fluids or tissues and determines how your body responds to certain antibiotics. It helps guide treatment decisions based on your specific infection and medical history.
This test helps doctors choose the best antibiotics to treat infections by identifying the germs causing them and their reaction to medications.
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 99981-3
- Short code
- CULTUREANDDEMOGRAPHICSINCORPORATEDINTOPLANOFCARE
- Synonyms
- —
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 doctor may order this test if you have signs of an infection, such as fever, redness, swelling, or unusual discharge. It’s also used when you’re prescribed antibiotics to confirm the type of infection and ensure the right medication is chosen.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for most cultures. For blood cultures, you may need to avoid certain medications or procedures for a short time. For urine or other specimen cultures, follow your doctor’s instructions to ensure accuracy.
What the Test Involves
A small sample of your blood, urine, sputum, wound fluid, or other body fluid/tissue is collected and sent to a lab. The lab grows the sample in a controlled environment to identify any microorganisms and test their sensitivity to antibiotics.
How Results Are Used
Results help your doctor confirm the type of infection, decide on the best antibiotic treatment, and monitor your response to therapy. Some results may take several days to weeks, depending on the type of culture.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: This test is critical for diagnosing infections accurately and tailoring treatment to avoid antibiotic resistance. It ensures you receive the most effective and least harmful treatment for your specific infection.
Short name
Culture & Sensitivity (with Demographics)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from a culture test?
What if my culture test comes back negative but I still feel sick?
Can I take antibiotics before my culture 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