MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Skin or mucosal biopsy culture

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Skin or mucosal biopsy 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

Mucosal biopsy

Alternative names Return to top

Culture - skin or mucosal biopsy

Definition Return to top

Skin or mucosal biopsy culture is a laboratory test to isolate and identify organisms that cause infection, performed on a sample obtained from the skin or mucous membranes.

How the test is performed Return to top

A sample of skin or mucous membrane can be taken by 1 of 3 methods: a shave biopsy (scraping or shaving a thin layer), a punch biopsy (using a needle or punch to obtain a small, but deeper, sample), or an excision of tissue (cutting to remove a piece of tissue).

A small piece of skin or mucous membrane is thus obtained and placed in culture media in the laboratory. It is observed for the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria and fungus. When growth is observed, the microorganisms can be identified and classified.

How to prepare for the test Return to top

The preparation is the same as for a skin biopsy. See also Gum biopsy.

How the test will feel Return to top

You will be given local anesthesia to numb the site before the biopsy is done, but you may still feel some pain or discomfort.

Why the test is performed Return to top

The test may be performed as part of the diagnosis of acute or chronic infections of the skin or mucous membranes.

Normal Values Return to top

The presence of no organisms (a sterile biopsy) is normal.

What abnormal results mean Return to top

Bacterial or fungal growth is present (infection).

What the risks are Return to top

There may be bleeding, slow healing, or an infection can be introduced into the biopsy site.

Special considerations Return to top

Sometimes the biopsy is also sent for microscopic examination by a pathologist.

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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