MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Lymph node culture

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Lymph node culture

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 What the risks are Special considerations

Illustrations

Lymphatic system

Lymph node culture

Alternative names Return to top

Culture - lymph node

Definition Return to top

Lymph node culture is a laboratory test performed on a lymph node to identify organisms (bacteria, viruses, and fungus) that cause infection.

How the test is performed Return to top

A needle aspiration or biopsy of an enlarged lymph node (swollen glands) is obtained. The fluid is placed in culture media and observed for growth in the laboratory. Sometimes special stains are also done.

How to prepare for the test Return to top

Adults:
There is no special preparation.

Infants and children:
The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age, previous experiences, and level of trust. For general information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics:

Infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
Toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
Preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
Schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
Adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How the test will feel Return to top

The site may be numbed with a local anesthetic before the node is aspirated. There may be some pain when the needle is inserted into the lymph node.

Why the test is performed Return to top

The test may be performed if the cause of swollen glands is not known, and infection is suspected.

Normal Values Return to top

No growth is normal.

What abnormal results mean Return to top

Abnormal results indicate that infectious microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, or fungus are present.

Suspicion of atypical mycobacterial infection is an additional condition under which the test may be performed.

What the risks are Return to top

There is a risk of bleeding or infection.

Special considerations Return to top

Not applicable.

Update Date: 1/26/2004

Updated by: Daniel Levy, M.D., Ph.D., Infectious Diseases, Greater Baltimore Medical Center, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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