Blood culture

A laboratory test that incubates a blood sample to detect microorganisms, especially bacteria or fungi, in the bloodstream. A positive result can identify the pathogen and guide treatment.

Blood culture bottle: A sterile vessel containing broth and sensors or additives for growing microorganisms from blood. Its broth supports microbial growth while monitoring systems detect changes associated with it.
Bloodstream infection: The presence of pathogenic microorganisms in the blood. Blood cultures are a principal laboratory method for detecting this condition.
Bloodstream: The circulating blood within the heart and blood vessels. The sample is intended to reveal microorganisms circulating in this compartment.
Blood culture-independent diagnostic test: A test that detects bloodstream pathogens or their components without first growing them in culture. These methods can identify organisms when culture is slow or remains negative.
Blood culture media: Nutrient preparations that support the growth of microorganisms in laboratory cultures. Media composition helps recover diverse bacteria and fungi from blood.
Sepsis: Life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated response to infection. Cultures can help identify the infection driving suspected sepsis.
Venipuncture: The puncture of a vein to obtain blood or establish vascular access. Aseptic venipuncture reduces contamination during culture collection.
Polymerase chain reaction: A laboratory method that amplifies selected DNA sequences for detection or analysis. PCR can detect microbial genetic material without waiting for growth.
Blood culture contamination: The introduction of microorganisms from sources other than the patient’s bloodstream into a blood culture sample. Skin flora can enter during collection and mimic a true bloodstream infection.
Bacteremia: The presence of bacteria in the bloodstream. Blood cultures are commonly used to confirm and characterize bacteremia.

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