Overview
MDL Test Name
Bacterial Identification – Aerobic
MDL Test Code
BAC_IDA
Ask at Order Questions
Source
Specimen Source
Pure culture isolate on suitable agar (solid) medium; slant or plate
Specimen Requirements
Container/Tube
Suitable agar (solid) medium for isolate submitted. It can be slant or sealed plate.
Specimen Volume (minimum)
Pure culture with viable growth must be submitted
Sample Stability Time
Stability varies with the organism and transport system; usually up to 48 hours at ambient temperatures but fastidious organisms should be sent promptly.
Transport/Storage Conditions
Ambient (20 – 25°C)
Patient Preparation / Collection Instructions
N/A
Performance
Days Performed
Daily; Monday – Sunday
Report Available (TAT) – (Once received at MDL)
2 – 4 days
Specimen Retention Time
7 days
Method Description
Identification methods may include any of the following: conventional biochemical testing, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry, and commercial identification panels. Genus and species are reported on aerobic bacterial isolates whenever possible.
Reference Values
Identification of organism
Cautions
Testing cannot be performed on mixed cultures, submitted isolate must be pure.
Testing ability depends on the viability of the organism submitted.
Verify labeled appropriately and securely sealed for transport to avoid breaking or leakage. Recommend securing the lid with parafilm or similar material. Place in an individually sealed bag.
MDL does not perform identification testing of possible agents of bioterrorism and/or identification confirmation of Salmonella or Shigella species. Please reference your local state health department on how to proceed with these isolates.