MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Mycobacterial culture of bone marrow

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Mycobacterial culture of bone marrow

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

Bone marrow aspiration

Alternative names Return to top

Culture - mycobacterial of bone marrow

Definition Return to top

Mycobacterial culture of bone marrow is a test to determine if tuberculosis and other similar bacteria are present in the bone marrow.

How the test is performed Return to top

A bone marrow aspiration or biopsy is performed. A sample of bone marrow is placed in culture media specific for tuberculosis and other similar bacteria. It is then examined for growth at routine intervals. Sometimes an acid-fast stain is done initially to help with the diagnosis.

How to prepare for the test Return to top

You must sign an informed consent form before the bone marrow biopsy. It is important to remain as still as possible during the test. There is no other 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 skin over the biopsy or aspiration site (usually the back of the hip or the sternum) will be cleansed. An anesthetic will be injected into the skin surrounding the site to numb the site. Even with the anesthetic, there may be pain or pressure as the bone marrow is removed. The discomfort in the area can last for several days and even weeks.

Why the test is performed Return to top

The test is performed if infection of the bone marrow with tuberculosis or other similar bacteria is suspected.

Normal Values Return to top

The bone marrow is normally sterile (no organisms are present).

What abnormal results mean Return to top

An infection of the bone marrow with tuberculosis or other similar bacteria. This may also signify disseminated tuberculosis.

What the risks are Return to top

There is a slight risk of bleeding or infection from the test.

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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