Bacteriology Frequently Asked Questions

Accurate diagnostic results depend on proper specimen collection, handling, and transport. This FAQ page outlines key recommendations for bacteriology and mycology submissions. For case-specific guidance or further clarification, please contact the laboratory at 334-844-2658 for assistance.

Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine
Department of Pathobiology Diagnostic Services
263 Greene Hall
Auburn University, AL 36849
334-844-2658
vmbact@auburn.edu

Bacteriology Submission Form (PDF)

Bacteriology and Mycology Test and Pricing Guide

Shipping Instructions

How much specimen is needed for culture?

The short answer: more is always better. Larger specimen volumes improve test sensitivity and help ensure more accurate results.

• Feces: 5–10 grams (about 1/4 cup) preferred in a leak-proof container.
• Urine: 1-2 ml. Cystocentesis is the recommended method of collection.
• Fluids: 2-5 ml

How long is my specimen good for culture after collection?

Samples for bacterial or fungal culture should arrive at the laboratory the same day or within 24-48 hours of collection to reduce contamination and preserve any organisms present in the specimen.

Specimen viability depends on several factors, including:

• Collection method
• Sterility of the collection site
• Suspected organism
• Transport device used
• Storage conditions

Every case is unique, and our laboratory staff can help determine whether a specimen is still suitable for testing.

What type of transport device should I use?

The transport device depends on the type of sample being collected.

Liquids and tissues:

• Any sterile, well-sealing container without additives (red-top, white-top, specimen cup, etc.)
• Aspirates can be submitted in a capped and secured syringe
• Tissue samples (excluding those suspected of oomycete infection—see below) should also be submitted in gel-based transport media (e.g., Amies or Cary-Blair), which is acceptable
• Liquid transport systems (e.g., Copan ESwab) are accepted but not preferred

Swabs (when fluid or tissue is not available):

• Commercial culture swabs with gel media are preferred
• If using a sterile cotton swab, place it in a red-top tube with ~0.5 mL sterile saline to prevent drying

Blood cultures:

• Must be submitted in blood culture bottles
• For blood:
  • Aim for a 1:10 dilution based on the bottle size (no more)
  • Collection of 3 separate bottles is recommended (either over time or from separate body sites) for maximum sensitivity.
• For CSF, synovial fluid, or vitreous humor:
  • Blood Culture Bottles are recommended for these body sites. Include as much specimen as possible, but do not pool multiple collections.

Anaerobic cultures:

• ACT Tube, Port-a-Cul Tube for tissues/swabs, or Port-a-cul Vial for fluids

Should the collection site be prepared before sampling?

Yes — proper site preparation is essential to minimize contamination and improve diagnostic accuracy.

Recommended preparation includes:

• Clipping and surgical-style cleansing of biopsy sites
• Debriding and flushing wounds before collection
• Collecting aspirates from intact abscesses before lancing whenever possible

Good collection technique greatly improves culture quality and interpretation.

Are there special instructions for suspected Pythium or Lagenidium infections?

Yes. Organisms such as Pythium or Lagenidium are sensitive to cold temperatures and must be shipped at room temperature.

Packaging recommendations may vary depending on the size and type of specimen collected. If one of these organisms is suspected, please contact the laboratory at 334-844-2658 prior to shipping so we can help determine the most appropriate method.

What is the turnaround time for culture results?

Because bacteria and fungi are living organisms, growth rates can vary significantly. Results are released as soon as new information becomes available.

Typical (incubation) period include:

• Aerobic culture: 2- 7 days
• Anaerobic culture: 2- 7 days
• Mycoplasma culture: 14 days
• Fungal culture: 3- 4 weeks
• Mycobacterial culture: 1-6 weeks

Negative cultures are finalized only after the appropriate incubation period has been completed.

Where can I find the submission form?

The bacteriology submission form (PDF) is available through the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine website on the Bacteriology and Mycology Laboratory page.

How should I ship my specimen?

All specimens must be packaged in:

• A primary container (specimen tube/container)
• A secondary container with absorbent material to prevent leakage

General shipping recommendations:

• Ship culture specimens refrigerated in an insulated container with frozen cold packs (not ice) and no cubed, pelleted, or dry ice
• Ensure samples remain at refrigerated temperature during transit

Exceptions (ship at room temperature):

• Hair, scales, and nails for dermatophyte culture
• Blood culture bottles
• Suspected Pythium/Lagenidium specimens

If you have questions about packaging or shipping conditions, our team is available to assist.

All responsibility for shipping compliance rests with the shipper.

Can I ship a specimen for weekend delivery?

There is no mail delivery on weekends or public holidays. Plan shipments to arrive Tuesday–Friday to ensure specimen integrity. If weekday shipping is not possible, contact the laboratory at 334-844-2658 for guidance on the best alternative. Avoid mailing out on Friday.

Can someone help me interpret culture results?

Our team is available to assist with culture interpretation and discuss potential treatment considerations.

Please contact the laboratory at 334-844-2658

We can review cases and coordinate consultation with an appropriate faculty member when needed.