CULTURE AEROBIC MISCELLANEOUS WITH GRAM STAIN

The Culture, Aerobic, Miscellaneous with Gram Stain Test is a laboratory test used to detect and identify bacteria that have caused infections in different parts of the body, like the skin, wounds, abscesses, or body fluids. The test looks for the presence of bacteria, their type, and which antibiotics may be effective in treating them. This is important information to your doctor to make decisions about the correct treatment, especially if an infection is not getting better with routine medications.

Process

• Lab technicians collect a sample (pus, swab, fluid, etc.) from the area of infection using sterile techniques.
• The sample is stained and microscopically examined and categorized as either Gram-positive or Gram-negative.
• The sample is cultured and antibiotic sensitivity testing is performed.

When to Get Tested

The Culture, Aerobic, Miscellaneous with Gram Stain Test will be ordered if there are signs of infection such as swelling, pus, pain, or fever especially around a wound, surgical site, or skin. It will also be used if the infection is not getting better after initial antibiotics were prescribed.

Sample Type

The type of specimen sample depends on the type and location of infection and could be pus, wound swabs, or fluid aspirates.

Test Preparation

You will not need to fast. Please let your doctor know if you are currently having antibiotic treatment, as this may interfere with results.

Understanding Your Results

A positive report will identify the bacteria type and what antibiotics the bacteria are sensitive to, assisting doctors in prescribing the most efficacious medicine. A negative report indicates that no aerobic bacteria were found, but you may have to be tested for other etiologies, such as anaerobes or fungi.