Test ID: ANIDE
Organism Referred for Identification, Anaerobic Bacteria
Useful For 
Suggests clinical disorders or settings where the test may be helpful
Identification of anaerobic bacteria involved in human infections
Clinical Information Discusses physiology, pathophysiology, and general clinical aspects, as they relate to a laboratory test
Anaerobic bacteria are the greatest component of the human body's normal bacterial flora colonizing the skin, oral cavity, and genitourinary and lower gastrointestinal tracts. Their presence is important in promoting vitamin and other nutrient absorption and in preventing infection with pathogenic bacteria.
Anaerobes generally are of low pathogenicity, but may possess virulence factors such as endotoxin or polysaccharide capsules or produce extracellular toxins. Disease occurs when a large inoculum develops in an area lacking oxygen or with a poor blood supply.
Typical anaerobic infections include peritonitis, abdominal or pelvic abscesses, endometritis, pelvic inflammatory disease, aspiration pneumonia, empyema, lung abscesses, sinusitis, brain abscesses, gas gangrene, and other soft tissue infections. Many Bacterioides produce beta-lactamase and are resistant to penicillins and cephalosporins. Imipenem, metronidazole, and clindamycin are effective agents, although resistance to clindamycin is increasing.
Reference Values Describes reference intervals and additional information for interpretation of test results. May include intervals based on age and sex when appropriate. Intervals are Mayo-derived, unless otherwise designated. If an interpretive report is provided, the reference value field will state this.
Identification of organism
Interpretation Provides information to assist in interpretation of the test results
Isolation of anaerobes in significant numbers from well-collected specimens from blood, other normally sterile body fluids, or closed collections of purulent fluid indicates infection with the identified organism.
Cautions Discusses conditions that may cause diagnostic confusion, including improper specimen collection and handling, inappropriate test selection, and interfering substances
No significant cautionary statements
Clinical Reference Provides recommendations for further in-depth reading of a clinical nature
Finegold SM, George W: Anaerobic Infections in Humans. San Diego, CA, Academic Press, 1989
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