Culture, Eye
Also known as: Culture Cul-de-sac, Eye, External Eye Culture, Eyelid, Conjunctiva Eye
Use
This test is used for microbiologic culture of ocular specimens to identify bacterial or fungal organisms present in eye infections. It supports diagnosis and informs targeted antimicrobial therapy.
Special Instructions
For corneal scrapings, inoculate material onto culture media immediately at time of collection. If using swabs, culture each eye separately using separate swabs; specify source on requisition and on transport device.
Limitations
Rejected specimens include those in expired transport devices, dry swabs, specimens in formalin or other fixatives, wooden‑shafted or cotton‑tipped swabs, and calcium alginate swabs. Refrigerated or frozen specimens are unacceptable. Specimen stability is limited to 48 hours at room temperature.
Methodology
Culture-based
Biomarkers
Result Turnaround Time
Not provided.
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Other
Volume
Not provided
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
transport device/swab
Collection Instructions
Inoculate corneal scrapings immediately onto media; for swabs, collect separate swab per eye and specify source on requisition and transport.
Causes for Rejection
Expired transport device; dry swabs; specimens in formalin or other fixatives; wooden‑shafted, cotton‑tipped swabs; calcium alginate swabs; refrigerated or frozen specimens
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 48 hours |