What is blood culture?

Blood culture is a laboratory test that checks for the presence of bacteria or fungi in the bloodstream. It is typically used to diagnose bloodstream infections, such as sepsis, meningitis, or pneumonia.

A blood culture is performed by taking a sample of blood, usually from a vein in the arm. The blood is then placed in a special culture bottle and incubated for a period of time, usually several days. During this time, the bacteria or fungi in the blood will grow and multiply, making them easier to detect.

If bacteria or fungi are present in the blood culture, they will be identified and tested to determine their susceptibility to antibiotics or antifungal medications. This information can then be used to develop a treatment plan for the infection.

Blood culture is an important test for diagnosing bloodstream infections, as it can help to identify the specific organism causing the infection and determine the best course of treatment.