Test Overview
Test Methodology

Culture

Test Usage

Isolate and identify Actinomyces

Reference Range *

No growth of anaerobic Actinomyces

* Reference ranges may change over time. Please refer to the original patient report when evaluating results.

Test Limitations

Specimens received in anaerobic transport containers are unsuitable for direct smear.

Test Details
Days Set Up
Daily, 24 hrs
Analytic Time

Preliminary results are reported in 24 hours. Negative cultures are reported after 15 days.

Soft Order Code
ACTSN
MiChart Code
Actinomyces Culture
Synonyms
  • Abscess, Actinomyces
  • ACTSN
  • Anaerobe Culture, Actinomyces
  • Bronchus, Actinomyces
  • Endometrium, Actinomyces
  • Sulfur Granules
  • Tissue, Actinomyces
  • ACTINOMYCES CULTURE
Laboratory
Microbiology
Section
Microbiology
Specimen Requirements
Collection

Abscess, bronchoscopy specimens, endometrial aspirate, IUD, tissue. Collect specimens from the prepared site using sterile technique. AVOID CONTAMINATION WITH NORMAL FLORA FROM ORAL CAVITY, SKIN, RECTUM, VAGINAL TRACT, OR OTHER BODY SURFACES. Specimens with volume greater than 1.0 ml or IUD may be sent without transport but MUST be received within 1 hour of collection. Specimens with volume less than 1.0 ml MUST be sent in anaerobic transport. Indicate current antibiotic therapy and clinical diagnosis.

Normal Volume
0.5 - 5.0 ml pus or aspirate, or small piece of tissue or IUD
Minimum Volume
0.5 - 5.0 ml pus or aspirate, or small piece of tissue or IUD
Storage Temperature
1. Ambient: Yes
2 Incubate: No _
3. Refrigerate: No
4. Freeze:No
For optimum recovery, anaerobe specimens should not be stored.
If unable to transport immediately, specimens in anaerobic transport tubes may be held at room temperature for up to 24 hours.
Rejection Criteria
1. Do NOT send swabs.
2. SPECIMENS FROM SITES WHICH HAVE ANAEROBIC BACTERIA AS NORMAL FLORA (e.g. throat or sputum, rectal swabs, cervical-vaginal mucosal swabs, skin and superficial wounds) WILL ROUTINELY BE REJECTED.
3. Specimens MUST be sent in anaerobic transport or sterile cup within 1 hour of collection for IUD.
4. If an unacceptable specimen is received, the client will be notified before disposal of the original specimen.
Additional Information

Test includes screen for Actinomyces only. Direct smear and complete culture must be requested separately. Specimen will be examined for the presence of `sulfur granules'.

Billing
CPT Code
87075
Fee Code
20291