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Microbiological culture and sensitivity testing of a specimen

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

This test helps identify bacteria, fungi, or other microorganisms in your body and determines how they respond to antibiotics.

Quick summary

["Identifies infections and guides treatment choices."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
11475-1
Short code
Microorganism Spec Cult
Synonyms
Microorganism Spec Cult
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
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 This Test Measures

A culture grows microorganisms from your sample (e.g., blood, urine, wound, or other bodily fluid) to detect the presence of pathogens. Sensitivity testing then checks which antibiotics could effectively kill or inhibit these microbes.

How the Test Works

Your sample is placed on a nutrient-rich medium where microorganisms multiply over days to weeks. After growth, the lab identifies the types of organisms and tests their reaction to various antibiotics.

Why It’s Done

Doctors order this test to diagnose infections (e.g., urinary tract, skin, or bloodstream infections) and tailor treatment to the specific germs causing illness.

Sample Collection

A sterile sample (e.g., blood, urine, or swab) is collected by a healthcare provider. The sample is sent to the lab where it’s processed to isolate and grow microorganisms.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Microbiology Culture & Sensitivity

Frequently asked questions

How long will results take?
Results typically take 3–14 days, depending on the type of sample and microorganism. Some urgent infections may require immediate treatment while waiting for results.
What if I have no symptoms but test positive?
A positive culture doesn’t always mean an active infection. Your doctor will consider symptoms, medical history, and other test results to determine if treatment is needed.
Can I take antibiotics before the test?
Yes, but it may affect results. If you’ve already taken antibiotics, inform your doctor before the test to help interpret findings accurately.
  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