Bacterial Culture and Sensitivity for Blood (with Quantitative Count of Specific Bacteria)
This test checks for the presence of bacteria in your blood and identifies which, if any, are causing an infection. It also helps determine the best treatment with antibiotics.
["Identifies bacterial infections in your blood and guides antibiotic choices."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 93315-0
- Short code
- Plt CD49b Act/Nor Bld FC
- Synonyms
- Plt CD49b Act/Nor Bld FC
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- flow-cytometry
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, chills, or unexplained infections, or if you have conditions that increase your risk of blood infections, such as weakened immune systems, recent surgeries, or chronic illnesses like cancer or diabetes.
How the Test Works
A small sample of your blood is collected and sent to a lab. Bacteria, if present, grow in special culture media over 24–48 hours. The lab then tests the bacteria’s sensitivity to various antibiotics to find the most effective treatment.
Sample Collection and Preparation
Blood is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is processed to separate bacteria from your blood cells before being cultured. No special preparation is needed, but fasting may be advised depending on other tests ordered.
What to Expect After the Test
Results may take several days to a week. While waiting, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics based on symptoms alone. If bacteria are found, treatment will be adjusted to target the specific organism.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results confirm a bacterial blood infection (sepsis) and guide antibiotic selection to prevent complications like organ damage or death. Negative results mean no bacteria were detected, but persistent symptoms may still require further evaluation for other causes.
Short name
Blood Bacterial Culture and Sensitivity
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
What if my blood culture comes back negative but I still feel sick?
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