Purpose:
To detect the presence of bacteria, fungi, or viruses in various samples to diagnose infections.
Specific Tests:
– Blood Culture: Detects bacterial or fungal infections in the bloodstream (sepsis).
– Urine Culture: Identifies bacteria causing urinary tract infections (UTIs).
– Throat Culture: Detects bacteria or viruses causing throat infections (e.g., strep throat).
– Sputum Culture: Identifies pathogens causing respiratory infections (e.g., pneumonia, tuberculosis).
– Stool Culture: Detects bacteria, viruses, or parasites causing gastrointestinal infections.
– Wound Culture: Identifies pathogens in infected wounds or abscesses.
Expected Results:
– Positive: Growth of specific microorganisms indicating an infection, with sensitivity testing to determine effective antibiotics.
– Negative: No growth of pathogens, suggesting no infection.