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Thursday, August 21, 2008
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Mycobacterial cultureDefinitionMycobacterial culture is a test to look for tuberculosis or a related organism in the body. It can be done on tissue taken from the bone marrow, liver, or lungs. See also: Alternative NamesCulture - mycobacterial Why the Test is PerformedYour doctor may order this test if you have signs of tuberculosis or a related infection. How the Test is PerformedA sample of tissue is needed. A biopsy or aspiration will be done, depending on the suspected site of infection. The sample is placed in a special laboratory dish (culture media) and watched to see if tuberculosis or similar bacteria grow. How to Prepare for the TestThe preparation depends on the suspected site of infection. For details, see: How the Test Will FeelHow the test will feel depends on the specific procedure. For details, see: RisksRisks depend on the specific biopsy or aspiration being performed. There are no risks associated with the culture itself. Normal ResultsIf there is no disease present, there will be no growth of bacteria in the culture medium. What Abnormal Results MeanMycobacterium tuberculosis or similar bacteria is present in the culture.
Review Date: 12/3/2007 Reviewed By: D. Scott Smith, M.D., MSc, DTM&H, Chief of Infectious Disease & Geographic Medicine, Kaiser Redwood City, CA & Adjunct Assistant Professor, Stanford University. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. |