Blood Culture
Also known as: Blood culture, bacterial, fungal and/or AFB
Formal name: Culture, blood
Related tests: CBC, Urine culture, Bacterial wound culture, Gram stain, CSF analysis, Fungal tests, Susceptibility Testing
At a Glance
Why Get Tested?
To check for the presence of a systemic infection; to detect and identify microorganisms in the blood
When to Get Tested?
When you have signs or symptoms of sepsis, such as fever of unknown origin, chills, fatigue, and an elevated white blood cell count
Sample Required?
Two or more blood samples drawn at timed intervals or from separate venipuncture sites, typically from different veins in your arms
Test Preparation Needed?
None
