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Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing for Streptomycin (Liquid Culture Method)

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

This test checks how well your body’s bacteria respond to the antibiotic streptomycin, helping doctors decide the best treatment for infections.

Quick summary

["Determines antibiotic effectiveness for bacterial infections caused by streptomycin-resistant strains."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
20462-8
Short code
Streptomycin Islt SlowMyco
Synonyms
Streptomycin Islt SlowMyco
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
method-for-slow-growing-mycobacteria
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 Measures

The test evaluates bacterial growth in the presence of streptomycin. If bacteria grow despite the antibiotic, they may be resistant. If they don’t grow, the antibiotic likely works well against them.

Why It’s Done

Doctors may order this test if you have a bacterial infection that doesn’t improve with standard antibiotics, or if you’re at higher risk for resistant infections (e.g., severe illness, weakened immune system).

Sample Collection and Preparation

A sample of your blood, urine, or other bodily fluid is collected and mixed with a nutrient medium. Streptomycin is added, and bacteria are allowed to grow. Growth patterns indicate susceptibility or resistance.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed unless your doctor specifies. You may be asked to avoid certain medications that could affect results, but this depends on the test type.

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.

Results guide antibiotic choices to prevent unnecessary side effects or ineffective treatments. Resistance patterns help track antibiotic use trends and inform public health strategies.

Short name

Streptomycin Sensitivity Test

Frequently asked questions

How long does this test take?
Results typically take 24–72 hours, depending on the lab’s process. Your doctor will contact you once they’re ready.
What does ‘resistant’ or ‘susceptible’ mean?
'Resistant' means the bacteria won’t be killed by streptomycin, so your doctor may choose a different antibiotic. 'Susceptible' means streptomycin is likely effective, but they may still test other antibiotics for safety.
Can I take antibiotics before this test?
No, avoid antibiotics unless your doctor approves. Stopping them prematurely could affect results, while taking them may skew the test’s accuracy.
  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