Microorganism Detection in Fluid by Culture (Anaerobic)
This test checks for the presence of bacteria that thrive without oxygen in your body fluids, such as blood or other samples. It helps identify infections caused by these organisms.
["This test helps diagnose infections that may not be visible with other tests, like blood cultures for sepsis or fluid samples for abscesses."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 90430-0
- Short code
- Microorg prel grow Fld Ql Anaerobe Cult
- Synonyms
- Microorg prel grow Fld Ql Anaerobe 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
- anaerobic-culture
- CPT
- 86038
- 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 Used For?
Anaerobic bacteria cultures are commonly used to detect infections in areas like the blood, joints, brain, or other body fluids. They’re particularly important for diagnosing conditions like abscesses, endocarditis, or infections in people with weakened immune systems or open wounds.
How Is the Sample Collected?
A healthcare provider will collect a sample (such as blood, spinal fluid, or other bodily fluid) using a sterile needle or swab. The sample is then sent to a lab where it’s placed in special growth media to encourage anaerobic bacteria to multiply.
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
A positive result means that anaerobic bacteria were found growing in the sample. This could indicate an infection, but further testing (like antibiotic sensitivity) is often needed to determine the best treatment.
What Does a Negative Result Mean?
A negative result means no anaerobic bacteria were detected in the sample. However, this doesn’t always rule out an infection, as some bacteria may not grow under anaerobic conditions or require longer incubation periods.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Anaerobic bacteria cultures are critical for diagnosing infections that occur in low-oxygen environments, such as deep tissue abscesses, intra-abdominal infections, or infections in the brain or spinal cord. They help guide antibiotic treatment by identifying specific bacteria that may respond differently to medications.
Short name
Anaerobic Bacteria Culture
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor order this test?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I take antibiotics before the 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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy