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Test Code LAB269 Comprehensive Body Fluid Culture

Important Note

All sterile body fluid specimens (except blood, CSF, Dialysate, and urine)  submitted with this order will be evaluated for the presence of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria.

Performing Lab

AOMC Microbiology

Collect

  • The specimen should be collected by established methods taking care to avoid contamination with commensal micro flora.
  • Fluid is required. Swabs of fluid are accepted, but should be discouraged as devices for transport.
    Swabs of fluid should be ordered as Wound Cultures and/or Anaerobic Culture with a descriptive comment of "Swab of XXXXXX fluid."
    Only specimens that can be poured should be ordered as fluid cultures.

Collection Device

Sterile Container

Stability (from collection to initiation)

  • The specimen should be transported to the Laboratory without delay.
  • Do not refrigerate during transport.
  • Specimens obtained by syringe should be transferred to a sterile tube prior to transport. Alternatively, at a minimum, the needle should be removed and syringe capped. 

Storage/Transport Temperature

Transport at room temperature.

Methodology

Culture methods

Start Date

prior to 8/7/2025

Last Review Date

06/15/2026

Performance

Monday - Sunday

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.

Specimen Types

  • Joint or synovial fluid
  • Pleural fluid
    • Thoracentesis fluid
    • Empyema fluid
  • Peritoneal fluid
    • Ascites fluid
    • Paracentesis fluid
  • Pericardial fluid
  • Amniotic fluid
  • Vitreous fluid