MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Culture

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Culture - meconium

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Alternative names Definition How the test is performed How to prepare for the test	How the test will feel Why the test is performed Normal Values What abnormal results mean

Illustrations

Meconium culture

Alternative names Return to top

Meconium stool culture

Definition Return to top

A laboratory test to isolate and identify organisms in the newborn feces (meconium) that may cause gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting or to determine the cause of a disease in the infant.

How the test is performed Return to top

One way of collecting stool from an infant involves lining the diaper with clear plastic wrap, then removing the wrap with the stool inside it and transferring it to a waterproof container. Some diapers contain antibacterials, which is why this plastic wrap is recommended to protect the specimen and ensure accurate results.

A sample of the specimen is then placed in culture media to encourage the growth of microorganisms. The culture is observed at regular intervals in the laboratory. When growth is observed, the organisms are identified. Further tests to determine sensitivity of the organisms to antibiotics may also be carried out.

An alternative method is a stool sample obtained by swabbing the rectum with a sterile swab then placing the material in culture media.

How to prepare for the test Return to top

A collection container will be provided for the stool specimen. Return the sample to the laboratory as soon as possible. The specimen should not include tissue of any kind or urine. A stool sample is usually obtained by the nurses in the newborn nursery because meconium is passed only during the first few days of life.

How the test will feel Return to top

There is no discomfort.

Why the test is performed Return to top

Meconium is the tarry stool of newborns that lasts for the first three days after birth. It is composed of amniotic fluid, salts, bile, cells, and normally is free of bacteria. While bacteria in the gut are a common and necessary part of life after birth, life in utero is normally sterile, and therefore there are no organisms in the meconium. If your child has been exposed to infected amniotic fluid, then this test may be positive for infective organisms and indicate the need for intervention and close attention.

Normal Values Return to top

Normal values show no organisms in the meconium stool of the newborn.

What abnormal results mean Return to top

An abnormal finding indicates bacterial growth in the meconium stool. This is of concern since the infant's immune system is underdeveloped and unprepared for invading organisms. Therefore a newborn infection could be serious and lead to newborn sepsis.

Update Date: 5/20/2002

Updated by: Elizabeth Hait, M.D., Department of Pediatrics, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH. 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 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.