Culture And Sensitivity Anaerobic Wound Swab
What is this test?
Wound swab may be cultured to test the sensitivity of the anaerobic bacteria which may be the reason for infection of the wounds. The goal is to see if there is an anaerobic infection present on the wound. Any wound may become infected with a variety of bacteria. A culture helps in determining whether a wound has become infected, which type of bacteria is causing the infection, and which antibiotic would be suitable to treat the infection and help the wound heal.
Wounds are the superficial breaks in the skin such as cuts, scrapes, scratches or may involve deeper tissues such as bites, incisions, punctures or burns. A culture is done by collecting a sample of fluid with a cotton swab and placing it in the nutrient media. The media helps the growth of bacteria and allows for identification and further testing. The bacteria developed are tested for sensitivity to see which antibiotic works and depending on this the treatment can be planned.
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 heat, redness, and swelling at the site, tenderness at the site, drainage of pus or fluid, fever, etc. This test is also recommended if your wound is healing slowing. This test is also preferred to check the effectiveness of the treatment given.
Also known as C/S Anaerobic Wound 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 Wound Swab. Your doctor will give specific instructions depending on your condition on how to prepare for Culture And Sensitivity Anaerobic Wound Swab.
No specific preparation is required for this 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 |