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Streptococcus aureus quantitative blood culture (aerobic and anaerobic)

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

This test checks for the presence of *Streptococcus aureus* bacteria in your blood, a type of infection that can cause serious illness if untreated.

Quick summary

["Blood cultures help identify infections caused by bacteria in your bloodstream."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
7719-8
Short code
S aureus IgE Qn
Synonyms
S aureus IgE Qn
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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

Why Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, chills, or unexplained pain, or if you’ve been exposed to infections that could spread to your blood. It’s also used to monitor people with weakened immune systems or conditions like cancer or heart disease that increase infection risk.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll likely have two tubes of blood drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is placed in special containers that encourage bacterial growth. No special preparation is needed, but inform your doctor about any medications or recent infections.

What Happens During the Test?

The blood samples are incubated for 5–14 days in separate aerobic (oxygen-rich) and anaerobic (oxygen-poor) environments to detect bacterial growth. Results are checked daily, and positive cultures are confirmed with additional tests.

What Are the Results Meaning?

Positive results indicate *Streptococcus aureus* bacteria were found. This means you likely have a bloodstream infection (sepsis) and may need antibiotics. Negative results mean no bacteria were detected in this sample, but infections can still occur elsewhere in your body.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Staph aureus blood culture

Frequently asked questions

What Are Common Causes or Risk Factors?
Common causes include surgical procedures, intravenous drug use, or medical devices like catheters. Risk factors include diabetes, kidney disease, or a history of infections.
How Is This Test Different from Other Blood Tests?
Unlike general blood tests (e.g., CBC), this test specifically looks for bacterial growth in your blood. It’s not a routine screening test but is critical for diagnosing serious infections.
How Long Does It Take to Get Results?
Results can take 2–14 days, depending on growth patterns. If positive, you’ll likely receive treatment immediately, even before final confirmation.
  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