MicrobiologyInfectious Disease

Pus Culture & Sensitivity

Normal Range
No growth of pathogenic organisms
Sample Type
Pus/Aspirate
Fasting
No
Unit
N/A

Function

A Pus Culture and Sensitivity test is used to identify the specific aerobic and facultative anaerobic bacteria causing an infection in an abscess, wound, or surgical site. 'Culture' refers to growing the bacteria in a lab setting, while 'Sensitivity' (or Susceptibility) involves testing which antibiotics are most effective at killing the isolated strain.

Why it is Ordered

This test is vital for 'Antibiotic Stewardship.' Doctors order it when a patient presents with an infected wound or a localized collection of pus (abscess). It ensures that the patient is not prescribed a broad-spectrum antibiotic that might be ineffective against a specific resistant strain, such as MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus).

Associated Conditions

  • Abscesses: Localized collections of pus under the skin or within organs.
  • Cellulitis: Deep skin infections.
  • Post-operative Infections: Monitoring for bacterial growth at a surgical incision site.
  • Osteomyelitis: If the pus is associated with bone infection.

Check Your Result

Check Your Result

Interactive
N/A

Enter your lab result to see where you stand compared to the standard reference range.

Why Context Matters

The primary confounding factor for a Pus Culture is prior antibiotic use. If a patient begins taking antibiotics before the sample is collected, the bacteria may fail to grow in the lab (a 'false negative'), even if the infection is still active. Furthermore, contamination with normal skin flora (like Staphylococcus epidermidis) during collection can lead to misleading results, requiring a second opinion or repeat aspiration under sterile conditions.

Lab ranges are statistical averages, not biological laws. "Normal" for a 20-year-old male isn't normal for a 60-year-old female.

Clinical References

Source-of-truth databases and clinical guidelines for Pus Culture & Sensitivity:

Research & Guidelines

Related Indicators

Albert's Stain

View Range

Spore Stain

View Range

AFB Culture (Radiometric)

View Range
DR

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Binoy Babu, MBBS

Board Certified Doctor • 10+ Years Clinical Experience

Dr. Babu is a practicing physician dedicated to empowering patients with clear, actionable medical information. He founded 2opi to bridge the gap between complex lab reports and patient understanding, ensuring everyone has access to a reliable second opinion.

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