Test Name: Pus, Microscopy and culture 
Alternate Test Names Abscess Fluid, Microscopy and culture; Fluid (abscess or seroma), Microscopy and culture; Lymphocoele Fluid, Microscopy and culture; Pus from abscess, Microscopy and culture; Seroma fluid, Microscopy and culture 
PLS Test Code GENE  Laboratory Microbiology 
Specimen Pus  Analysis Performed On  
Container Sterile container  Container colour Blue 
Multiple specimens Pus in syringe or swab in transport medium may also be collected 
Required Volume Adult (mL) Req Vol Paediatric (mL)
Reference Ranges  
Turnaround Time Routine   Turnaround Time Urgent  
Turnaround Other Microscopy < 8 hours Culture < 3 days 
Days test is performed Daily  Transport 4 degrees C (On Ice) 
Special Requirements None. 
Patient Preparation None. 
Collection Instructions The referring clinician collects samples from unruptured abscesses by aspiration of contents with a syringe. Transfer contents of syringe into a sterile container. Open lesions and abscesses will be colonised with local skin flora. Wipe the surface with clean gauze moistened with sterile saline. Using a Transswab (Blue top), remove exudate and firmly sample the margin of the lesion with the swab. Place swab in transport medium. 
Clinical Information  
Sent to Reference Laboratory No 
Ref Laboratory Name  
Estimated Patient Fee N/A 
Last Updated 25-Aug-2006 (Version: 1.00)