Test Includes

Microscopy, culture for bacteria and fungi; antibiotic sensitivities on potential pathogens
The type of cultural investigations performed may vary, dependent on the clinical information received

Request Form 

Microbiology form (Green)

Availability

On request during normal working hours

Specific Criteria

If Chlamydia infection is suspected, special swabs are required which are available on request from the Virology Department (ext. 3536 or 01268-593636), see also Chlamydia detection
Please give detailed clinical information, including date of onset/ contact with the suspected infection, and any current, or intended, antibiotic therapy

Turnaround Time

48 hours for routine bacterial culture, up to 72 hours to identify and perform antibiotic sensitivity testing on significant organisms

Specimen

Bacterial culture swab in transport medium

Collection

Samples should be transported to laboratory immediately

Lab. Handling

Samples should be processed as soon as possible

Causes for Rejection

Unlabelled sample
Delay in sample reaching laboratory