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: Streptococcus species culture, isolation and identification

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

: A bacterial culture test that looks for Streptococcus bacteria in a sample and, if present, identifies which type is growing.

Quick summary

[": This test helps determine whether a Streptococcus infection is present and which species is responsible so treatment can be chosen appropriately."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
43389-6
Short code
Streptococcus Islt Cult
Synonyms
Streptococcus Islt Cult
Category
coagulation
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.8
Ref high
1.2
Critical range
— – 5 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
organism-specific-culture
CPT
85610
SNOMED
396252006
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 Checks For

: This is a culture test for Streptococcus bacteria. A sample is placed on special growth media in the laboratory, and if Streptococcus organisms are present they multiply and can be detected and identified.

: How the Test Is Done

: A specimen is collected from the area your clinician is concerned about, then sent to the lab where it is cultured and examined. Depending on the site sampled, collection may involve a swab or another specimen type.

: What Results Mean

: A result may show no Streptococcus growth, or it may identify a particular type of Streptococcus. Growth of Streptococcus can indicate an infection, but whether it is significant depends on the sample site and your symptoms, so results are interpreted by your clinician.

: Why Your Clinician May Order It

: Your clinician may order this test to evaluate a suspected Streptococcus infection, to identify the specific organism, and to help guide the choice of antibiotic or other treatment.

Reference range

INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A

Specimen: serum

Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

: Strep culture

Frequently asked questions

: Does this test tell me exactly which antibiotic I need?
: Not always on its own. Culture can identify the organism, and additional susceptibility testing may be needed to show which antibiotics are likely to work against it.
: Can Streptococcus bacteria be present without causing illness?
: Yes. Some streptococci can be part of the normal bacteria at certain body sites, so a positive culture does not always mean there is an active infection. Your clinician interprets results in context.
: How long does a culture result take?
: Culture results usually take one or more days because bacteria need time to grow, and identification may add more time. Ask your clinician or laboratory about the expected turnaround for your sample.
  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