Culture And Sensitivity Anaerobic Conjunctival Swab
What is this test?
Conjunctival fluid may be cultured to test the sensitivity of the bacteria. This test helps in diagnosing the cause of conjunctivitis. The goal is to see if there is an anaerobic infection present in the eye fluid (conjunctival fluid). For this test, a cotton swab is used to collect the conjunctival fluid. Your healthcare provider will pass a moistened swab two times or more over the lower conjunctiva avoiding eyeline border and lashes and sent to the lab.
What is conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva. It is also known as pinkeye. The Conjunctiva is the thin layer that lies over the white part of the eye and lines the inside of the eyelid. Conjunctivitis is highly contagious. This can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, amoebas, parasites, dirt, pollen, smoke, pool chlorine, reaction to eye drops or contact lens, etc.
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 recommended to you if you experience certain symptoms like the burning of the eyes, itchy eyes, sticky thick mucus-like discharge from the eyes, redness, slight blurring of the vision, etc. 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 also recommended to check the effectiveness of the treatment given.
Also known as C/S Anaerobic Conjunctival Swab.
Test Preparation
Inform your doctor if you are on any medications, have any allergies or underlying medical conditions before your Culture And Sensitivity Anaerobic Conjunctival Swab. Your doctor will give specific instructions depending on your condition on how to prepare for Culture And Sensitivity Anaerobic Conjunctival Swab.
No specific preparation is required for this conjunctivitis 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 in the conjunctiva of your eye.
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 |