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Leptospira species culture

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

This laboratory test attempts to grow Leptospira bacteria from a submitted specimen. A positive result indicates that viable Leptospira was detected in the specimen.

Quick summary

["A positive culture can support a diagnosis of leptospirosis, while a negative result does not completely rule it out."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
594-2
Short code
Leptospira Spec Cult
Synonyms
Leptospira Spec Cult
Category
coagulation
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.8
Ref high
1.2
Critical range
— – 5 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
organism-specific-culture
CPT
85610
SNOMED
396252006
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 the test detects

Leptospira are spiral-shaped bacteria that can infect people through contact with water, soil, or animals contaminated by infected urine. This culture test looks for the bacteria becoming detectable when they multiply in the laboratory.

How the test is performed

A laboratory specimen is placed under conditions that encourage Leptospira to grow. If the bacteria are present and viable, they may be identified and reported as positive. The laboratory may also use related tests to confirm the finding.

When the test may be ordered

The test may be ordered when a person has fever, headache, muscle pain, red eyes, jaundice, or kidney abnormalities after possible exposure to contaminated water, soil, or animal urine. Early antibiotics can make the bacteria difficult to grow.

Understanding the result

A positive result means Leptospira was recovered from the specimen. A negative result means it was not detected, but infection may still be present if the test was performed early, after antibiotics, or with an unsuitable specimen.

Reference range

INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A

Specimen: serum

Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical significance

Short name

Leptospira culture

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive culture always mean the infection is severe?
No. A positive result confirms detection of Leptospira but does not by itself determine severity. Severity depends on symptoms, organ involvement, and other clinical findings.
Can a negative culture rule out leptospirosis?
No. A negative culture can occur early in infection, after antibiotics, or when too few viable bacteria are present. Other laboratory tests and the clinical picture may help establish the diagnosis.
Are results from this test affected by specimen type and handling?
Yes. The chance of detecting Leptospira depends on which specimen is tested, how soon it is collected, and how quickly and appropriately it reaches the laboratory. Blood and urine are commonly used for suspected leptospirosis, although the submitted specimen is not specified by this test name alone.
  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