Pathology Handbook

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Pus Culture

Alternative Names:

abscess fluid
haematoma
drain fluid
pus

Laboratory:

Microbiology

Test Code:

WSD

Medicare rebatable:

Yes

Specimen Types:

Aspirate
Fluid

Container Types:

Sterile Container
Gel Swab

Collection & Request Instructions:

Aspirate from collection, abscess or wound; biopsy of abscess wall. The specimen should be collected in a sterile container. It is also possible to send a capped syringe (needle must be removed).

Pus should always be aspirated, if possible, rather than collecting a wound swab.

Swabs from a draining wound or sinus are frequently contaminated with normal flora from skin, mucous membrane.

Pus should be transported immediately to the laboratory.

Biopsy of abscess wall or adjacent tissue may increase the yield, especially in chronic infection.

Transport Instructions:

Room Temperature

Assay Frequency:

Daily

USEFUL LINKS

Frozen Section Booking Form

Printable Pathology Request Form

Order of Draw - Blood Samples