What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing symptoms like persistent fever, chills, rapid heartbeat, or feeling very unwell without a clear cause. It helps find out if bacteria are present in your bloodstream, which can happen with serious infections like sepsis or endocarditis. This test is especially useful if you've had a fever that won't go away or if you were recently hospitalized or had an invasive procedure.

What's included in this test?

This test looks for the presence of live bacteria growing in a blood sample, which signals an active bloodstream infection. If bacteria are found, a follow-up step called molecular identification pinpoints the exact type of bacteria, which helps guide the most effective next steps. This two-part approach gives both a quick answer and a detailed one.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account, with a clear explanation of what's considered a normal versus a positive finding. If your result comes back positive for bacteria, it's important to seek medical care right away since bloodstream infections can become serious quickly. A downloadable lab report is available in your account, and you can track any future retests over time using the trends feature. If your result is negative but symptoms continue, retesting or additional evaluation may be a helpful next step.

How can I naturally support my immune system?

While a bloodstream infection itself needs prompt medical attention, keeping your immune system strong can help your body fight off illness in general. Staying well-hydrated, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, getting enough sleep, and managing stress all support your body's natural defenses. Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol can also help your immune system function better over time.

When will I get my results?

Results for this test typically take about 7 days. This is because blood cultures need time to grow in a lab to detect if bacteria are present, and if they are, additional time is needed to identify the specific type. You'll be notified as soon as your results are ready to view in your account.

Who should consider this test?

Anyone with unexplained fever, chills, rapid heart rate, or a general feeling of being seriously unwell should consider this test. It's also useful for people recovering from surgery, those with a weakened immune system, or anyone recently hospitalized who has new symptoms of infection. If you've been told you might have a bloodstream infection, this test can provide a clear answer.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common symptoms include a high fever that doesn't go away, chills or shivering, a fast heart rate, confusion, low blood pressure, or feeling extremely fatigued or weak. If these symptoms appear suddenly or get worse quickly, it's important to seek medical care right away rather than waiting for test results. Milder ongoing symptoms like unexplained low-grade fevers can also be a reason to test.

What does a positive result mean?

A positive result means bacteria were found growing in your blood, which points to an active bloodstream infection. This is considered a serious finding and usually requires prompt medical attention, especially if you have symptoms like high fever or a fast heart rate. The molecular identification step tells you exactly which bacteria are involved, which is helpful for guiding effective treatment.

What causes a bloodstream infection?

Bacteria can enter the bloodstream through wounds, surgical sites, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, or infected medical devices like catheters. People with weakened immune systems, chronic illnesses, or those who have recently had surgery are at higher risk. Sometimes an infection starts in one part of the body and spreads to the blood if it isn't caught early.

How often should I retest?

If your first test was negative but symptoms continue or worsen, retesting is often recommended within a few days. If you've had a positive result and completed treatment, a follow-up test can confirm the infection has cleared. Otherwise, this test isn't typically part of routine or regular screening unless you have ongoing symptoms or risk factors.

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 - Sepsis & Infection Detection

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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