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Mycobacterial culture
Definition
Mycobacterial 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:
- Atypical mycobacterial infection
- Tuberculosis
Alternative Names
Culture - mycobacterial
How the test is performed
A sample of body fluid or 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 test
The preparation depends on the suspected site of infection.
For details, see:
How the test will feel
How the test will feel depends on the specific procedure.
For details, see:
Why the test is performed
Your doctor may order this test if you have signs of tuberculosis or a related infection.
Normal Values
If there is no disease present, there will be no growth of bacteria in the culture medium.
What abnormal results mean
Mycobacterium tuberculosis or similar bacteria is present in the culture.
What the risks are
Risks depend on the specific biopsy or aspiration being performed. There are no risks associated with the culture itself.
References
Iseman MD. Tuberculosis. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 345.
Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; Jatin M. Vyas, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor in Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Assistant in Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
