Overview
MDL Test Name
Bacterial Identification – Anaerobic
MDL Test Code
BAC_IDN
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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. Submit a sealed plate in an anaerobic transport bag to maintain viability.
Specimen Volume (minimum)
Pure culture with viable growth must be submitted
Sample Stability Time
Stability varies with 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, the 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 and then in an anaerobic transport bag.