Superficial Eye Culture-Provincial
Discipline
Microbiology
Overview
Description
- A superficial eye culture involves collecting a sample from the outer surface of the eye, typically the conjunctiva, to identify potential pathogens (bacteria, yeast)
Ordering Recommendations
- Swabs from both the infected and uninfected eye need to be submitted. Clearly indicate which eye is affected
Specimen Information
Specimen types accepted
- Conjunctival Swabs
Specimen collection container
- E-swab collection system (preferred) or M-40 Transystem swabs
Collection procedure
- Cleanse skin around eye. Make-up or ointment should be removed with sterile cotton and saline
- Swab the conjunctiva around the inner canthus or cul-de-sac. Lower the bottom eyelid and apply the swab tip to the lower bulbar conjunctiva for about 5 seconds, without touching the eyelid margin
Required volume
- 2 Conjunctival Swab sets:
- 1 set from the infected eye
- 1 set from the uninfected eye
Transport and stability
- Transport at room temperature, as soon as possible. If delay is anticipated, keep specimen at 4°C
Performance
Methodology
- Gram stain and culture for aerobic bacteria and yeast is performed routinely. Cultures are incubated for 48 hours
- Culture for Neisseria gonorrhoeae will be performed if ordered on requisition
Days/times performed
-
Specimens will be cultured at the nearest microbiology laboratory
Maximum laboratory time
- Identification and susceptibility results are usually available 24 – 48 hours after an organism is isolated
- Reports of no growth are sent at 24 hours and 48 hours, if applicable
Specimen retention time
- Specimens retained for 3-7 days after culturing
Other information
- Patient History: Clinical presentation, symptoms, underlying medical conditions (immunosuppression), current/previous antibiotic history
- Culture for Neisseria gonorrhoeae should be inoculated to media at the bedside
Last Updated: September 17, 2025