Bacterial Culture (Corneal Scrape)

Department

Microbiology

Delphic Registration Code (Alpha Code)

CORN

Test Code (Numeric Code)

2048

Laboratory Handling

Sample Stability

24 hours

Synonyms

Culture

Turnaround Time

48 hours

Results of direct examination are available within 1 hour of specimen receipt. Culture reports on positives are issued immediately. Interim negative reports will be issued at 48 hours and a final report is issued at 10 days

Specimen Type

  • Corneal Scraping

Specimen Requirements

Tube/Container Type:

Preferred
  • Petri Dish (Mycology)
  • Please refer to Additional Information below

Paediatric Specimen Requirements

Tube/Container Type:

Preferred
  • Petri Dish (Mycology)
  • Please refer to Additional Information below

Pre-testing Requirements

Direct inoculation of the culture media and smear preparation at the bedside is essential.

Additional Specimen Information

The Microbiology Department will provide appropriate material following a telephone request. The Greenlane Clinical Centre Eye Clinic and Eye ward are automatically provided with collection kits.

All requests must include information about the suspected causative agent, e.g. amoebae, bacteria or fungi.

Acanthoamoeba culture: if this is required, please inoculate inside the circle on the plate and do not place the patient label on this side.

Last updated: 31/03/2026