Brucella Culture

Casandra

Casandra Test Code AR31891Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab ARUP LaboratoriesLab Test ID 0060159CPT Code 87081

Also known as: MC BRUC

Clinical Use

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Use

The Brucella Culture test is used to identify Brucella, which is the causative agent of brucellosis, in various specimens such as blood, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), body fluids, abscesses, and tissues. Brucellosis is a zoonotic infection that can be transmitted to humans from animals, and prompt identification is critical for effective treatment and control of the disease spread. The culture method helps in confirming the presence of the pathogen in suspected cases, which is important for accurate diagnosis and management of the infection.

Special Instructions

It is advisable to indicate the specimen source when submitting for Brucella Culture. Specimens should be transported at room temperature and packed in a manner to avoid drying, particularly for tissues. Abscesses, aspirates, and fluids should be in sterile containers, while tissues should be moistened with sterile saline. Low specimen volume may reduce the recovery rate of pathogens, thus adequate volume is recommended to improve the chances of pathogen recovery.

Limitations

The Brucella Culture can take a maximum of 22 days to confirm a negative result due to slow bacterial growth. A positive result can be reported as soon as the bacteria are detected. Clotted blood and specimens obtained with swabs are unacceptable as they may compromise the diagnostic accuracy and recovery of the pathogen. Furthermore, the test requires specific specimen types and conditions to ensure its efficacy; deviations from these requirements may result in false negatives or reduced sensitivity.

Test Details

New York Approved