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Test Code LAB268 CSF Culture

Performing Lab

Arnot Ogden Medical Center

Ordering Recommendations

Detection and identification of bacterial agents of meningitis.

Collect

Cerebrospinal Fluid collected by lumbar puncture or from a shunt.

Collection Device

CSF Collection Container

Stability (from collection to initiation)

Must be transported to the laboratory ASAP.

Storage/Transport Temperature

Room Temperature

Methodology

Conventional Culture

Start Date

9/13/2017

Last Review Date

06/15/2026

Specimen Handling

If possible, collect prior to the administration of antibiotics.

Room Temperature

Remarks

  • Gram stain is included in this culture order and must be reported within 1 hour.
  • Susceptibility testing will be performed on significant isolates.
  • This test will only identify bacterial agents of meningitis. This test will not identify fungal, mycobacterial, viral, or parasitic agents of meningitis.

Interpretation

  • All organisms recovered may be potential pathogens; any positive growth is reported.
  • Cultures are reported as "No growth," if no organisms are recovered after 48 hours of incubation.