Staphylococcus Culture (with Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing)
This test checks for the presence of *Staphylococcus* bacteria in your sample and determines how your body responds to common antibiotics.
["Helps identify bacterial infections and guide antibiotic treatment choices."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 90076-1
- Short code
- Staphylococcus Islt Cult
- Synonyms
- Staphylococcus Islt 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
- organism-specific-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
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like redness, swelling, pain, or drainage from a wound, skin infection, or other signs of bacterial infection. It’s also used to check if antibiotics are working properly in people with ongoing infections.
How the Test Works
A small sample (usually from a wound, blood, or other body site) is collected and grown in a lab to see if *Staphylococcus* bacteria are present. If bacteria grow, they’re tested against common antibiotics to see which ones work best against them.
Sample Collection
A sterile swab or small sample (like blood or fluid) is taken from the affected area or drawn into a tube. The sample is then sent to a lab for culture and antibiotic testing.
What to Expect After the Test
Results may take several days to a week, depending on the lab. You’ll typically hear back from your doctor once the results are ready. If antibiotics are needed, your provider will adjust your treatment plan based on the test results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test helps confirm or rule out *Staphylococcus* infections, which can cause serious illnesses like skin infections, bloodstream infections, or pneumonia. Knowing which antibiotics work best helps prevent antibiotic resistance and ensures you get the most effective treatment.
Short name
Staph Culture & Antibiotics Test
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can I take antibiotics before getting this test?
Is there anything I should do to prepare for this 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