Spectrum: Local Antimicrobial Stewardship, for UCLA Health

Vertebral Osteomyelitis or Discitis - Any Age

Tests

Aerobic Culture

  • Single representative fluid collection (not bone) from bone aspirate or debridement sent in syringe or sterile specimen cup to microbiology

  • Minimum quantity: 0.5 ml

Cell Count

  • Sent in red top microtainer

  • Minimum quantity: 250 microliter

Histopathology

  • Bone material sent in formalin.

  • No frozen section or touch prep needed for routine cases.

  • 11gauge bone marrow biopsy needle or currette.