The healthcare provider may order a Blood Culture, if one has symptoms of a serious blood infection (sepsis). Other lab tests and investigations are also ordered along with a Blood Culture, to locate the source of infection.
Some of the symptoms associated with sepsis include:
It has to be noted that newborns and young children, may not have typical signs and symptoms of sepsis.
Sample required: Blood
Process: Insertion of a needle into a vein (arm).
Preparation required: None
Multiple samples are collected, either at different times, or from different sites on the body, in order to achieve better results. The sample is sent to a laboratory, where it is placed in a special dish, incubated in a controlled environment for 1-7 days, and monitored for growth of pathogen. This is called a culture. If there is a growth, then further tests are done to determine the specific type of pathogen causing the infection.
The Blood Culture test can help evaluate the cause of fever or shock. It can also help in selecting the best antibiotic, to kill the microorganism responsible for the infection.
Normal or negative test result:
Positive test result:
The laboratory test results are NOT to be interpreted as results of a "stand-alone" test. The test results have to be interpreted after correlating with suitable clinical findings and additional supplemental tests/information. Your healthcare providers will explain the meaning of your tests results, based on the overall clinical scenario.
Certain medications that you may be currently taking may influence the outcome of the test. Hence, it is important to inform your healthcare provider, the complete list of medications (including any herbal supplements) you are currently taking. This will help the healthcare provider interpret your test results more accurately and avoid unnecessary chances of a misdiagnosis.
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