Bile (Culture & Sensitivity)

Test information: To identify the causative pathogen within bile and where applicable to determine antimicrobial susceptibility results.

Availability: Available locally Monday - Sunday during routine hours: 08:45 - 21:00.
Available out of hours on telephone request.

Turnaround Time: 48 hours

Specimen Type(s)

• Bile;

Other Acceptable Specimen Type(s)

N/A

Specimen Container - Adult

• Plain Universal;

Specimen Container - Paediatric

• Sterile CE-marked Universal Container;

Analytes

• Culture & Sensitivity;

Part of a test profile?

No

Volume (min) of sample to be sent to laboratory

1mL
The volume of specimen influences the viability of anaerobes.

Patient Preparation, Sample Handling and Transport

• Bile specimens are collected in theatre or from a closed drainage system by aspiration with a syringe and needle.
• Collect sample before antimicrobial therapy where possible.
• Specimens should be transported to the laboratory without delay during normal working hours.
• The recovery of anaerobes is compromised if the transport time exceeds 3 hours.
• If transport is delayed store at 2-8 °C.

Maximum add on time

N/A

Units and Reference Ranges / Interpretation

Susceptibility Testing: Each susceptibility category is defined by breakpoints specific for each species and agent. The breakpoints are minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and describe the amount of agent required to inhibit the growth of the organism.

The definitions of (S),(I) and (R) emphasize the close relationship between the susceptibility of the organism and the exposure of the organism at the site of infection.

Susceptible (S): High likelihood of therapeutic success with standard dosing.
Susceptible Increased Exposure (I): High likelihood of therapeutic success with increased dosing.
Resistant (R): High likelihood of therapeutic failure.

UKAS number

8869

UKAS accredited test?

Yes

Comments

Useful Links:

• Adult Antimicrobial Guide
• Paediatric Antimicrobial Guide
• Primary Care Antibiotic Guide

If you have any queries about a test or results interpretation please contact us.