MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Skin lesion aspiration

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Skin lesion aspiration

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Definition How the test is performed How to prepare for the test	How the test will feel Why the test is performed What abnormal results mean What the risks are

Illustrations

Skin lesion aspiration

Definition Return to top

Skin lesion aspiration is the withdrawal of fluid from a skin lesion (sore).

How the test is performed Return to top

A needle is inserted into a skin lesion or skin abscess, which may contain fluid or pus. The fluid may be examined under the microscope or placed in culture media to observe for the growth of microorganisms.

How to prepare for the test Return to top

There is no special preparation for this test.

Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:

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

If the abscess is deep, a local anesthetic may be injected into the skin to numb the area. There will be a pricking sensation as the needle enters the skin. In many cases, the removal of fluid will decrease the pressure within the tense, irritated lesion and relieve the pain.

Why the test is performed Return to top

This test is used to help determine the cause of a fluid-filled skin lesion. It can be used to diagnose skin infections.

What abnormal results mean Return to top

The results may indicate a bacterial or fungal skin infection.

What the risks are Return to top

There is a slight risk of bleeding or infection.

Update Date: 4/15/2003

Updated by: Michael Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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