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Enterobacter spp. Identification by Culture

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

A culture test checks a submitted sample for Enterobacter bacteria and identifies the organism if it grows.

Quick summary

["A positive culture means Enterobacter bacteria were recovered from the submitted sample, but whether this represents infection depends on the clinical context."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
90067-0
Short code
Enterobact Islt Cult
Synonyms
Enterobact Islt Cult
Category
tumor-marker
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
organism-specific-culture
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

What is this test?

This test is used to detect and identify Enterobacter bacteria in a specimen submitted for culture. It is a microbiological test rather than a blood or imaging test.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this culture when symptoms suggest a bacterial infection, when certain risk factors are present, or to investigate an abnormal result from another laboratory test. The reason for testing depends on the type of specimen collected.

How is the test performed?

The laboratory places the specimen on special culture media and observes it for bacterial growth. If Enterobacter grows, laboratory specialists perform additional testing to confirm or identify the organism.

How do I prepare for the test?

Preparation depends on the specimen and the instructions provided by your clinician. Collect and submit the sample as directed, using good hand hygiene and a clean container. Do not stop antibiotics or other medicines unless your healthcare professional advises you to do so.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A positive result means Enterobacter bacteria were recovered from the submitted specimen. Depending on the specimen and symptoms, this may indicate a true infection or simply colonization with bacteria that are normally present. Results should be interpreted together with your medical history, other test findings, and any signs of infection.

Short name

Enterobacter culture

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive Enterobacter culture always mean I have an infection?
No. Enterobacter bacteria can sometimes be present without causing illness, so a positive culture must be interpreted in light of your symptoms and the specimen tested.
What type of specimen is required?
The required specimen depends on the clinical situation and the laboratory order. Follow your clinician's or the laboratory's collection instructions carefully.
How long does the test take?
Cultures generally require several days to complete, and confirmatory identification testing may take longer. The laboratory can provide a more specific expected time based on the specimen.
  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