Bacterial Culture (Bronchial Washings)

Testing Laboratory

Department

Microbiology

Delphic Registration Code (Alpha Code)

BW

Test Code (Numeric Code)

2037

Laboratory Handling

Separating

Each aliquot should be labelled with the sample type and site, dated and signed.

Sample Stability

24 Hours

Associated Tests

• Bacterial Culture (Sputum)
• Atypical Pneumonia PCR panel
• Mycobacterial Culture (Sputum)
• Respiratory Virus PCR Panel (Swab)
• Aspergillus Galactomannan (Bronchioalveolar Lavage)
• Fungal Culture (Miscellaneous)

Synonyms

BAL
Bronchoalveolar Lavage
Bronchial Specimens

Turnaround Time

3 days

Gram Stain: available same day or urgently on request. Routine bacterial culture: negative or interim report issued at 72 hours.

Specimen Type

• Bronchial Washing

Specimen Requirements

Tube/Container Type:

Preferred

• Specimen Container

Preferred Sample Volume (ml)

25

Minimum Sample Volume (ml)

5

Paediatric Specimen Requirements

Tube/Container Type:

Preferred

• N/A
• Specimen Container

Preferred Sample Volume (ml)

10

Minimum Sample Volume (ml)

5

Pre-testing Requirements

To avoid a delay in processing, it is advisable to notify the laboratory when sending specimens and of any particular requirements.

Extra tests need to be clearly written on the request form e.g. TB, Fungi, Nocardia, Atypical pneumonia. Note on request form if patient is immunocompromised, Cystic Fibrosis, Bronchiectasis, Lung transplant.

Additional Specimen Information

When requesting multiple tests, it is essential to provide sufficient sample. Where only a small amount of sample is available, please indicate which tests are to be prioritised. To make sure specimens are well preserved please transport on ice. Place the ice in a separate outer bag to the specimen bag to contain any 'melt' that may affect patient labels and reduce possible contamination of the specimen.

Contact Information