What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing unexplained fever, chills, rapid heartbeat, or ongoing fatigue that won't go away. It helps check whether bacteria have entered your bloodstream, which can cause serious conditions like sepsis, endocarditis, or chronic infections. It's often used when symptoms suggest a body-wide infection that needs to be found and confirmed.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account with a clear explanation of what a normal versus abnormal result looks like for this test. If bacteria are found, the report will explain the type detected, and you should seek medical care right away since bloodstream infections can become serious quickly. If your result is negative but symptoms continue, retesting or additional testing may be a smart next step. You can download the full lab report anytime and track any repeat tests over time using the trends feature.

Who should consider this test?

Anyone with a fever of unknown cause, chills, night sweats, or a rapid heart rate that doesn't have an obvious explanation should consider this test. It's also useful for people recovering from a recent infection, surgery, or invasive medical procedure who develop new symptoms. People with weakened immune systems who get sick easily are also good candidates.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common symptoms include persistent high fever, chills or shaking, a fast heart rate, confusion, low blood pressure, or feeling extremely unwell without a clear cause. Some people also notice fatigue that doesn't improve with rest or symptoms that worsen quickly over a day or two. If you have any of these along with a known recent infection, this test can help identify if bacteria have spread into your blood.

When will I get my results?

Results for this test typically take about 7 days because the lab needs time to grow and identify any bacteria present in the sample. This waiting period is normal for blood cultures since bacteria grow slowly and need several days of observation for an accurate result. You'll be notified as soon as your results are ready in your account.

What is a blood culture and why does it matter?

A blood culture is a test that checks if bacteria are growing in your bloodstream, which shouldn't normally contain any germs. It matters because bacteria in the blood can quickly spread and cause serious illness like sepsis if not caught early. Finding out early gives you a chance to get treated before the infection becomes dangerous.

What does a positive result mean?

A positive result means bacteria were found growing in your blood sample, which suggests an active infection that needs prompt attention. This is considered a serious finding and you should seek medical care right away rather than waiting. The report will typically identify which type of bacteria was found, which helps guide the right treatment.

What causes bacteria to enter the bloodstream?

Bacteria can enter the blood through infections that start elsewhere in the body, like the lungs, urinary tract, skin wounds, or gums, and then spread. It can also happen after surgery, dental work, or having a catheter or IV line in place for a long time. People with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop this kind of spreading infection.

How often should I retest?

If your first test is negative but symptoms continue or worsen, retesting within a few days is often recommended to catch an infection that may not have shown up yet. If you're being monitored for a known infection, repeat testing may be done to confirm the bacteria have cleared. Otherwise, this isn't a routine test and is only needed again if new symptoms appear.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If bacteria are detected in your blood, seek medical care immediately since this can indicate a serious, fast-moving infection. Don't wait to see if symptoms improve on their own, especially if you have a high fever, confusion, or a racing heart. Keep a copy of your lab report handy, as the specific bacteria identified will help determine the right course of action.

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.

Blood Culture Test - Detect Bacterial 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]