Microbiology culture and sensitivity for *microorganism* identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing (serum/plasma)
This test helps identify bacteria, viruses, or fungi in your blood and determine which antibiotics would be most effective if an infection is found.
["It supports treatment decisions by pinpointing the cause of bloodstream infections and guiding antibiotic choices."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 53966-8
- Short code
- G1 RBC/RBC NFr UrnS Micro
- Synonyms
- G1 RBC/RBC NFr UrnS Micro
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.2
- Ref high
- 5.9
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 7 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- microscopy-light
- CPT
- 85041
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003001
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test involves growing a sample of your blood in a controlled environment to detect any microorganisms (such as bacteria, fungi, or viruses). After growth, specialized tests assess the types of microorganisms present and how they respond to different antibiotics.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is then processed to isolate microorganisms, which are cultured in specific media to grow and identify them.
When to Expect Results
Results may take several days to a week or more, depending on the complexity of the culture and the presence of multiple potential pathogens. This delay is necessary to ensure accurate identification and susceptibility testing.
Common Uses and Indications
This test is commonly used to diagnose bloodstream infections (sepsis), infections from medical devices (like catheters), or infections in patients with weakened immune systems.
Reference range
Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical significance of this test includes diagnosing infections that may not respond to initial treatments, guiding the selection of appropriate antibiotics to prevent resistance, and monitoring patients with chronic conditions or those undergoing treatments that increase infection risk.
Short name
Microbiology Culture & Sensitivity (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
What does a positive result mean?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy