Serum or Plasma Bacterial Culture with Specific Identification and Antibiotic Susceptibility Testing (for *S. aureus*)
This test checks for the presence of *Staphylococcus aureus* bacteria in your blood and determines which antibiotics would be most effective if treatment is needed.
["Helps diagnose infections caused by *S. aureus* and guides antibiotic choices."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 74747-7
- Short code
- Deprecated S aureus gyrB Bld Pos Ql Prb Mag
- Synonyms
- Deprecated S aureus gyrB Bld Pos Ql Prb Mag
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-mag-capture
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test involves drawing blood and sending it to a lab where it is cultured to detect *S. aureus* bacteria. If bacteria are found, additional tests identify the specific strain and assess antibiotic resistance patterns. This helps healthcare providers tailor treatment to your infection.
Why It’s Done
You may need this test if you have symptoms like fever, chills, or signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or pain in a wound, or if you have a medical condition that increases your risk of blood infections.
When Results Are Needed Quickly
Results can take several days to a week, depending on the lab’s workflow. Some labs may provide preliminary findings sooner, but final reports are typically detailed and confirmatory.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but inform your healthcare provider about any medications you’re taking, especially antibiotics, as they may affect results. Avoid eating or drinking anything (except water) for a short time before drawing blood if instructed.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
S. aureus Blood Culture
Frequently asked questions
Identifying *S. aureus* in the blood is critical for diagnosing serious infections like bacteremia or sepsis. Accurate antibiotic selection based on susceptibility testing reduces the risk of antibiotic resistance and improves recovery outcomes.
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink before the blood draw?
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