Culture And Sensitivity Anaerobic Catheter Tip
What is this test?
Central venous catheter tip may be cultured to test the sensitivity of the bacteria. This test helps in diagnosing catheter-related bloodstream infection. The goal is to see if there is an anaerobic infection present. For this test, a catheter tip (2 inches to 5 cm) which is beneath the skin is cut and collected in a sterile container and sent to the laboratory.
What is catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI)?
This catheter-related bloodstream infection is due to the presence of bacteria originating from an intravenous (i.v.) catheter. This infection is also called as catheter-related sepsis. This infection is the most common complication of central venous catheterization. Catheter-related bloodstream infections may trigger a systemic inflammatory response which will lead to fever, leucocytosis (increase in the number of white blood cells), low blood pressure, pale and cool arms and legs, chills, difficulty in breathing and decreased urine output. Mental confusion and disorientation may also develop quickly.
What are anaerobic bacteria?
Anaerobic bacteria are bacteria that can not survive in the presence of oxygen. Some of the examples of anaerobic bacteria are Staphylococcus, E.Coli, Clostridium, Actinomyces, Acetobacterium, etc. The growth of anaerobic bacteria causes anaerobic infections. Anaerobic infections can occur when deep tissues are injured or exposed. This can occur due to surgery or trauma, etc. The risk factors of getting an anaerobic infection are diabetes, a weak immune system, low blood flow, staph infection, open wounds, etc. The common symptoms of anaerobic infection are smelly discharge, pus-filled abscess, discoloration of the infected area, etc.
Why this test is performed?
This test may be performed to assess potential catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI). If you experience symptoms like low blood pressure, pale and cool arms and legs, chills, difficulty in breathing and decreased urine output, mental confusion and disorientation, etc then this test is performed. This test may be specially performed to check if the infection is due to anaerobic bacteria or not. This test is also recommended to plan the treatment according to the type of bacteria. The test is recommended to check the effectiveness of the treatment given.
Also known as C/S Anaerobic Catheter Tip.
Test Preparation
Inform your doctor if you are on any medications, have any allergies or underlying medical conditions before your Culture And Sensitivity Anaerobic Catheter Tip. Your doctor will give specific instructions depending on your condition on how to prepare for Culture And Sensitivity Anaerobic Catheter Tip.
No specific preparation is required for this central venous catheter tip anaerobic culture and sensitivity test.
Understanding your test results
The normal test results may vary depending on age, health history, medical condition, etc.
If your test results show negative it means there is no growth of anaerobic bacteria.
If your test results show positive it may indicate that you may have an anaerobic bacterial infection.
If you get abnormal test results, consult your doctor immediately with your lab test reports.
| Gender | Age groups | Value |
| UNISEX | All age groups | The growth depends on the infecting organism. Clearing around the disc indicates organism is sensitive to antibiotic |