Culturette for aerobic and anaerobic culture set-up (samples labeled accordingly).
Test Description
This test is used when a bacterial infection is suspected in a tissue or fluid, but it is uncertain whether an aerobic or an anaerobic organism is the cause.
Interferences:
1) Prior to culture submission, patient should be off antibiotics for seven to ten days.
2) Fluid in lavender top tube is unacceptable (EDTA inhibits growth).
3) Samples collected in EDTA are not acceptable.
See codes CM020 and CM030 for additional sample submission instructions and acceptable specimens.
Note: Fluids should be submitted in a red top tube. Tissue should be submitted in an air-tight container for anaerobic culture. Samples should be refrigerated prior to submission. Sensitivities are not performed, but drugs of choice for anaerobes are provided as a guide.