Laboratory Test Directory

Synonyms: GC Culture, Gonorrhea Culture

CPT 4 Code: 87081

Test Order Mnemonic: C GC

Test Includes: Isolation of Neisseria gonorrhea

Lab: Bacteriology

Request Form: Microbiology

Collection: Collect culturette from suspected source. Transport to laboratory as soon as possible since this microorganism does not survive well without added nutrients.

Storage Instructions: Room temperature, do not refrigerate.

Causes for Rejection: Refrigerated specimens

Availability: Samples are accepted 24 hours per day at the Microbiology Processing Laboratory, Room 5.137 McCullough.

Turnaround Time: Preliminary after 1 day, final report after 2-3 days

Special Instructions: A bacterial culture is recommended in cases of suspected sexual abuse, treatment failures, or from sources that are not approved for ProbeTec test (refer to GC Probe test). Do not refrigerate swabs.

Specimen: Vaginal, cervical, urethral, urethra, pharynx, rectal, synovial fluid, eye

Container: Culturette

Revised/reviewed 10/21/2011 by T. Friloux