Blood Culture & Sensitivity
Blood culture detects bacteria or fungi in the bloodstream. Essential for sepsis and fever of unknown origin. Typically 2–4 bottles from different sites. Sensitivity testing identifies effective antibiotics.
Test Information
Reports In
3-5 days
Parameters
1
Requisites
Blood Sample
Sample Type
Blood
Measures
Bacterial or fungal growth in blood
Identifies
Bloodstream infection, sepsis, causative organism
What is the Blood Culture Test?
A Blood Culture tests for bacteria or fungi in your bloodstream — a condition called septicemia or bacteremia. It's the gold standard test when doctors suspect a serious blood infection. The blood sample is placed in a special culture medium and monitored for bacterial growth over 3-5 days. If bacteria grow, they're identified and tested against antibiotics to guide treatment.
Why Should You Take This Test?
Gold standard for bloodstream infection. Identifies organism and guides life-saving antibiotic therapy in sepsis.
Who Should Get Tested?
High-Grade Fever (>101°F)
Especially if fever doesn't respond to initial treatment.
Suspected Sepsis
Rapid heartbeat, confusion, low BP with fever.
Post-Surgical Fever
To rule out surgical site infection spreading to blood.
Immunocompromised Patients
HIV, cancer, or transplant patients with fever.
Warning Signs — When Should You Get This Test?
Common Conditions Detected
Frequently Booked Together
Tests commonly ordered alongside Blood Culture for a complete picture
CBC
WBC count and differential help assess infection severity
CRP / Procalcitonin
Quantify the severity of infection
Sensitivity Testing
Identifies which antibiotic will be effective
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