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Microbiology

Notes

  • The information given here is intended for use by healthcare professionals. Please see Lab Tests Online-UK for more general advice, links and background.
  • Please inform laboratory when sending
  • All samples will have a white cell count and enrichment culture
  • A cloudy dialysate may also be caused by chyle, fibrin or blood

Sample requirements

Send complete dialysate bag

Required information

Current or recent antibiotic therapy

Storage/transport

Dialysate bags should be transported in a rigid outer container.

Samples should be transported to the laboratory with minimal delay. Refrigerate samples if transport is delayed.

Turnaround time

  • Cell count and microscopy on day of receipt
  • Standard culture 2 – 4 days
  • Enrichment culture 5 – 7 days