Mycobacterial culture
Culture - mycobacterialMycobacterial culture is a test to look for the bacteria that cause tuberculosis and other infections caused by similar bacteria.
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How the Test is Performed
A sample of body fluid or tissue is needed. This sample may be taken from the lungs, liver, or bone marrow.
Most often, a sputum sample will be taken. To obtain a sample, you will be asked to cough deeply and spit out the material that comes up from your lungs.
A biopsy or aspiration may also be done.
The sample is sent to a laboratory. There it is placed in a special dish (culture). It is then watched for up to 6 weeks to see if the bacteria grow.
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How to Prepare for the Test
Preparation depends on how the test is done. Follow your health care provider's instructions.
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How the Test will Feel
How the test will feel depends on the specific procedure. Your provider can discuss this with you before the test.
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Why the Test is Performed
Your provider may order this test if you have signs of tuberculosis or a related infection.
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Normal Results
If there is no disease present, there will be no growth of bacteria in the culture medium.
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What Abnormal Results Mean
Mycobacterium tuberculosis or similar bacteria is present in the culture.
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Risks
Risks depend on the specific biopsy or aspiration being performed.
References
Fitzgerald DW, Sterling TR, Haas DW. Mycobacterium tuberculosis. In: Bennett JE, Dolin R, Blaser MJ, eds. Mandell, Douglas, and Bennett's Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases. 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 249.
Rodino KG, Woods GL, Wengenack NL. Mycobacteria. In: McPherson RA, Pincus MR, eds. Henry's Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods. 24th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2022:chap 59.