Which one of the following is an acceptable anaerobic specimen?

The choice of body fluid submitted in a syringe as an acceptable anaerobic specimen is valid because it minimizes exposure to oxygen, which is crucial for the viability of anaerobic organisms. When collecting specimens for the culture of anaerobes, ensuring that the sample remains free from oxygen is essential, as these bacteria thrive in environments devoid of oxygen.

Using a syringe for collection allows for a more controlled environment where air exposure can be limited, especially if the syringe is sealed immediately after collection. This is particularly important because anaerobic bacteria are sensitive to even small concentrations of oxygen, which can contaminate the sample and compromise the test results.

Other specimen types listed do not provide this ideal anaerobic environment. For example, swabs from the throat often sample aerobic flora as well and are not collected under conditions that keep the specimen anaerobic. Blood culture bottles do have specific systems for anaerobic growth, but they are not generally considered a direct specimen collection. Similarly, urine samples are typically voided in a way that exposes them to air, making them unsuitable for anaerobic culture as well. Hence, the collection method and specimen choice are critical for the successful cultivation of anaerobic microorganisms.