Ear Swab Culture (Anaerobic)

Ear swab culture (anaerobic) is a diagnostic test used to identify the presence of bacteria in the ear canal that requires an oxygen-free environment to grow (anaerobic bacteria). The test involves taking a sample from the ear canal using a sterile swab and transferring it to a special culture medium that supports the growth of anaerobic bacteria.

The sample is then incubated in an anaerobic environment to promote the growth of any anaerobic bacteria present. After a certain period of incubation, the culture is examined for the presence of bacterial growth. The type of bacteria present can be identified through microscopic examination and other laboratory tests.

Why is Ear swab culture (anaerobic) Done?

This test may be ordered by a healthcare provider if a patient has symptoms which may indicate an ear infection such as.

• Ear pain
• Discharge from the ear
• Hearing loss
• Fever

The results help in treatment guidance by identifying the specific type of bacteria causing the infection and determining the most effective antibiotic to use.

Sample for Ear Swab Culture (Anaerobic)

>>Earwax
or
>>Discharge
or
>>Tissue from the ear canal

What is the procedure for Ear Swab Culture (Anaerobic)?

To collect a sample for ear swab culture (anaerobic), a healthcare provider will use a sterile cotton or rayon swab to obtain a sample from the ear canal. The procedure usually involves the following steps:

The healthcare provider will clean the outer ear with an antiseptic solution to remove any surface bacteria.

A sterile swab is then inserted into the ear canal and rotated gently to collect a sample of earwax, discharge, or tissue from the infected area.

The swab is then placed into a transport tube containing an anaerobic culture medium, which provides the optimal environment for anaerobic bacterial growth.

The sample is sent to the laboratory for analysis, where it will be incubated in an anaerobic environment to encourage bacterial growth.

Cost of Ear Swab Culture (Anaerobic)

The cost of Ear Swab Culture (Anaerobic) near me in Delhi ranges from INR 500 to INR 3500.