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Joint aspirate (culture)

About This Test

Department: Microbiology, Virology and Molecular Microbiology

Requirement:

Please send aliquot of aspirate in blood culture bottles in addition to universal container to allow for improved sensitivity of the test.

 

Turnaround Time:

Microscopy - same day, culture 2-7 days

Gram stain and culture for bacterial causes of joint infection

Other Comments:

Collection container : Sterile plain container plus blood culture bottles

Special instructions - Relevant clinical data and details of recent or current antimicrobial treatment should be provided:

Specify if white cell count or examination for crystals required,

Specimen transport: If processing is delayed, refrigeration is preferable to storage at ambient temperature