What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing a wound, abscess, or infection that isn't healing and your recent culture sample may contain bacteria that grow without oxygen. It identifies the specific anaerobic bacteria present so the right treatment approach can be chosen. It's often used for deep tissue infections, dental infections, or infections from bites and surgical wounds.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will be available in your account, with an explanation of what the identified organism means. If a bacteria is identified, next steps typically involve starting an appropriate treatment plan and, if symptoms worsen or you develop fever, seeking medical care right away. You can download the standard lab report from your account at any time, and if you're retested later, you can track results over time using the trends feature.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Signs that you might need this test include a wound that smells bad, swelling and pus around a cut or surgical site, ongoing pain deep in tissue, or an infection that isn't improving with basic care. Fever, chills, and redness spreading around a wound are also common signs. If you have a dental abscess or an infection following surgery or an animal bite, this test is often relevant.

How can I naturally support recovery from a bacterial infection?

While natural remedies can't replace treating an active infection, keeping wounds clean, dry, and properly bandaged helps your body fight it off. Eating a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamin C, and zinc supports your immune system's ability to heal. Staying hydrated and getting enough sleep also helps your body recover faster. These steps work alongside treatment, not instead of it.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days, since bacterial cultures need time to grow and be properly identified in the lab. You'll receive a notification once your results are posted to your account. Growing anaerobic bacteria takes longer than many other lab tests because these organisms are slower-growing and require special lab conditions.

Who should consider this test?

Anyone with a wound, abscess, or infection suspected to involve bacteria that thrive without oxygen should consider this test. This includes people with deep puncture wounds, dental infections, diabetic foot ulcers, or infections after surgery. It's also useful if a previous treatment for infection didn't work, since identifying the exact bacteria helps guide better next steps.

What does a positive result mean?

A positive result means a specific anaerobic bacteria was found in your sample. This tells you and your treatment plan exactly what kind of germ is causing the infection, which helps determine the right way to treat it. It's not just about presence — the report also flags whether the organism is one commonly linked to true infection or one that can sometimes just be present without causing harm.

What causes anaerobic bacterial infections?

These infections usually happen when bacteria that live in low-oxygen environments, like your gut or mouth, get into deep tissue, wounds, or surgical sites where oxygen is limited. Common causes include animal or human bites, dental problems, deep cuts, diabetic ulcers, and complications after surgery. Poor wound care or a weakened immune system can also make these infections more likely.

How often should I retest?

If you're being treated for an infection, retesting is usually done only if symptoms don't improve or come back after treatment ends. There's no routine schedule for this test since it's used to diagnose an active problem, not for ongoing monitoring. Follow the guidance on your order or symptoms to decide if a repeat test makes sense.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If bacteria are identified, review the report to understand which organism was found and follow any treatment guidance provided. Keep the affected area clean and monitor for worsening symptoms like increased swelling, redness, fever, or pain. If symptoms become severe or you notice signs of the infection spreading, seek medical care right away.

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.

Anaerobic Bacteria Test - Infection Identification

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

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