Test Name: Ulcer Swab, Microscopy and culture 
Alternate Test Names Decubitus ulcer swab, Microscopy and culture; Diabetic ulcer swab, Microscopy and culture; Pressure sore swab, Microscopy and culture; Varicose ulcer swab, Microscopy and culture; Venous ulcer swab, Microscopy and culture 
PLS Test Code GENE  Laboratory Microbiology 
Specimen Swab  Analysis Performed On  
Container Transswab- swab in transport medium  Container colour Blue 
Multiple specimens  
Required Volume Adult (mL)   Req Vol Paediatric (mL)  
Reference Ranges  
Turnaround Time Routine   Turnaround Time Urgent  
Turnaround Other Microscopy < 8 hours Culture, bacterial < 3 days 
Days test is performed Daily  Transport 4 degrees C (On Ice) 
Special Requirements Tissue biopsy preferred for mycobacterial culture. A separate swab (Green top Virocult) is required for viral investigation. 
Patient Preparation None 
Collection Instructions Clearly state the type of ulcer (e..g varicose ulcer, decubitus ulcer, burns) and site of collection (e.g. lower left leg) Wash debris, dry crusts and pus from surface of ulcer with sterile saline so that the base of the ulcer is raw granulation tissue. Roll the swab firmly across the base of the ulcer so that the swab absorbs serous material from the the ulcer base. Place swab in tranport medium. 
Clinical Information  
Sent to Reference Laboratory No 
Ref Laboratory Name  
Estimated Patient Fee N/A 
Last Updated 25-Aug-2006 (Version: 1.00)