Lymph node culture
Lymph node culture is a laboratory test done on a sample from a lymph node to identify germs that cause infection.
How the Test is Performed
A sample is needed from a lymph node. This may be done using a needle to draw out fluid (aspiration) or during a lymph node biopsy.
The sample is sent to a laboratory where it is placed in a special dish and watched to see if bacteria, fungi, or viruses grow. This is called a culture. Sometimes special stains are also used to identify specific cells or microorganisms.
If needle aspiration does not provide a good enough sample, the entire lymph node may be removed and sent for culture and other testing.
How to Prepare for the Test
There is no special preparation needed for the lab test. For information on how to prepare for the lymph node sample, see lymph node biopsy.
How the Test Will Feel
For information on how the removal of the lymph node sample may feel, see lymph node biopsy.
Why the Test is Performed
Your doctor may order this test if you have swollen glands and infection is suspected.
Normal Results
A normal result means there was no growth of microorganisms on the lab dish.
Note: Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.
What Abnormal Results Mean
Abnormal results are a sign of a bacterial, fungal, or viral infection. Infections may include atypical mycobacterial infection.
Risks
There is no risk to the patient associated with a lymph node culture. For risks related to the removal of the lymph node sample, see lymph node biopsy.
Alternative Names
Culture - lymph node
References
Armitage JO. Approach to the patient with lymphadenopathy and splenomegaly. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds.Cecil Medicine. 24th ed.Philadelphia,PA: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap 171.
Update Date: 12/6/2011
Updated by: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; Jatin M. Vyas, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor in Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Assistant in Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
MedlinePlus Topics
Images
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M. follows rigorous standards of quality and accountability. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial policy, editorial process and privacy policy. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).
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 1997-2012, A.D.A.M., Inc. Duplication for commercial use must be authorized in writing by ADAM Health Solutions.
