What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing unexplained pelvic pain, abdominal swelling, or drainage from a sinus tract that won't heal, especially if you use an IUD. It checks for Actinomyces bacteria, which can cause a slow-growing infection called actinomycosis. It's also useful if you've had a lingering infection that hasn't responded to typical treatment and your prior care hasn't found a clear cause.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will be posted in your account along with an explanation of what a positive or negative culture means. If the culture is positive, next steps typically involve starting treatment promptly since Actinomyces infections often need extended antibiotic courses. If it's negative but symptoms continue, retesting or additional evaluation may be needed. You can download the full lab report anytime and use the trends feature to track any repeat testing over time.

What's included in this test?

This test looks for Actinomyces israelii and related Actinomyces species, the bacteria responsible for actinomycosis. Since these bacteria can hide within tissue and are slow to grow, the lab uses specialized culture techniques to detect them accurately, which is why this test focuses on this specific organism group rather than a broad panel.

Who should consider this test?

People with chronic drainage from a sinus tract, unexplained pelvic infections, or long-standing IUD use with unusual symptoms should consider this test. It's also relevant for anyone with a persistent abdominal or chest infection that hasn't cleared up with standard treatment. If you've noticed small yellowish granules in drainage, sometimes called 'sulfur granules,' this test can help identify the cause.

When will I get my results?

Results for this culture typically take about 7 days because Actinomyces bacteria grow slowly and need extra time in the lab to be properly identified. You'll get a notification as soon as your results are ready in your account. This longer turnaround is normal for this specific type of culture and doesn't mean anything is wrong.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common signs include persistent pelvic or abdominal pain, lumps or swelling that don't go away, and drainage from the skin that contains small granular material. Long-term IUD users who develop unusual pelvic symptoms should also pay attention. Chest symptoms like a cough with drainage, or an infection that keeps coming back despite treatment, can also be warning signs.

How can I naturally support recovery from a chronic infection?

While natural approaches can't cure an Actinomyces infection on their own, supporting your body with a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and good hydration can help your immune system function well. Reducing added sugar and processed foods may also help lower general inflammation. These steps work best alongside proper treatment, not as a replacement for it.

What does a positive Actinomyces culture mean?

A positive result means Actinomyces bacteria were found in your sample, which suggests they may be causing your infection. This usually calls for a longer course of targeted antibiotics since these bacteria can be stubborn and slow to clear. Follow-up testing may be recommended to confirm the infection has resolved.

What causes an Actinomyces infection?

Actinomyces bacteria normally live harmlessly in the mouth and female genital tract, but they can cause infection when they get into deeper tissue, often through a cut, dental work, or an IUD. Poor dental hygiene, prior abdominal surgery, or prolonged IUD use are common risk factors. The infection can spread slowly and form pockets of pus with characteristic granules.

How often should I retest?

If your first result was negative but symptoms persist, retesting after your symptoms are re-evaluated may be helpful. If you're being treated for a confirmed infection, a follow-up culture after finishing antibiotics can confirm the infection has cleared. Your account's trends feature makes it easy to compare results if you test more than once.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Actinomyces Culture Test - Detect Chronic Infection

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

[email protected]

Actinomyces Culture Test for Chronic Infection Symptoms