Culture & Sensitivity, Anaerobic Bacteria – Body Fluid
Test Overview
This test is performed to detect and identify anaerobic bacteria that may be causing infection in body fluid specimens. The culture helps determine the causative organism, while Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (AST) evaluates which antibiotics are likely to be effective.
Sample Type
- Body fluids such as pleural, peritoneal, synovial, or other normally sterile body fluids
- Proper anaerobic collection and transport are essential for accurate results.
What Does the Test Detect?
The test can identify anaerobic organisms that grow in the absence of oxygen, including clinically significant bacteria associated with deep-seated and serious infections.
Method
- Anaerobic conventional culture
- Microscopic examination and biochemical methods for organism identification
-
Conventional antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) where applicable
Why Is This Test Done?
It may be recommended when an anaerobic infection is suspected, particularly in:
- Deep-seated infections
- Intra-abdominal infections
- Pleural or joint infections
- Post-surgical or traumatic infections
- Infections involving normally sterile body fluids
Results
The report may include:
- Organism(s) identified
- Culture status
- Antibiotic susceptibility pattern, when applicable
-
Interpretation as Sensitive, Intermediate, or Resistant according to applicable laboratory standards
Important Note
The quality of the specimen and proper anaerobic handling are critical because exposure to oxygen can reduce the recovery of anaerobic bacteria. Antibiotic treatment should be guided by the clinical condition and the treating physician.
