Sign in →

Quantitative Bacterial Culture

eDH Procedure Code(s)

LAB3160 Respiratory Culture, Quantitative

Test Information

Used in the diagnosis of ventilator-associated pneumonia, pneumonia in immunocompromised and cystic fibrosis patients, acute episodes in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and even in CAP (community acquired pneumonia).

Collection Information

Specimen collected by respiratory care at patient’s bedside .
Quantitative cultures of BAL fluid collected by using a mini-BAL catheter kit.

Specimen Information

Specimen Type Specimen Source Acceptable Containers Minimum Test Volume (mL)
Bronchial Alveolar Lavage Varies SterCup-R

Shipping and Handling


Transport Temperature: Refrigerated

Specimen Stability
Ambient: n/a
Refrigerate: 24 hours
Frozen: n/a

Test Components

Component LOINC Code
GRAM STAIN 664-3
QUANTITATIVE BACTERIAL CULTURE 43411-8

Turnaround Time (TAT)

48 Hours

CPT Code(s)

87071

Performing Lab Section

Microbiology

Performing Lab(s)

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center Laboratory (MHMH)