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Lymph node culture is a laboratory test performed on a lymph node to identify microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, and fungi) that cause infection and lymph node swelling.
Alternative NamesCulture - lymph node
How the test is performedA sample of fluid from a lymph node is needed. 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 testThere 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 feelFor information on how the removal of the lymph node sample may feel, see lymph node biopsy.
Why the test is performedYour doctor may order this test if you have swollen glands and infection is suspected.
Normal ValuesA 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 meanAbnormal results are a sign of a bacterial, fungal, or viral infection. Infections may include atypical mycobacterial infection.
What the risks areThere 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.
ReferencesArmitage JO. Approach to the patient with lymphadenopathy and splenomegaly. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007: chap 311.
What else can I help you with?
What is a small node of tissue that filters lymph?
A lymph node.
What is the icd code for reactive lymph node?
A reactive lymph node is the same as an enlarged lymph node. Lymph nodes can become enlarged for a variety of reasons, most of which aren't serious. The ICD code for a reactive lymph node is 785.6.
What is para aortic prominent lymph node?
A paraaortic prominent lymph node is a lymph node more noticable than the others and found near the aorta.
What is the difference between an incision and excision of lymph nodes?
The difference between incision and excision of lymph nodes is very simple. The incision of a lymph node is when the biopsy only takes part of the lymph node during surgery. The excision of the lymph node is when the whole lymph node is removed.
Lump on your neck what can it be?
possibly an swollen lymph node possibly an swollen lymph node
What is the significance of sentinel lymph node?
A sentinel lymph node is the first lymph node that drains a cancer. If a cancer has not spread to the first draining lymph node near a cancer, there is a high likelihood it has not spread elsewhere.
What is reactive lymph node?
It's a lymph node that drains an inflamed area. The source of the inflammation can be bacterial-viral infection, immunological disease, or malignancy.
What distinguishes a sentinel node from other nodes?
A sentinel lymph node is the first lymph node that drains a cancer. If a cancer has not spread to the first draining lymph node near a cancer, there is a high likelihood it has not spread elsewhere.
What is most important in stage determination and regional lymph node involvement?
Of primary importance to stage determination and regional lymph node involvement is identification and analysis of the sentinel lymph node.
What is the word root for lymph node?
lymph/o
What is a superficial lymph node?
A lymph node is a small ball or an oval-shaped organ of the immune system.
What is an Encapsulated lymph node?
An encapsulated lymph node is a lymph node that is surrounded by a fibrous capsule, which is a protective layer of tissue. This encapsulation helps maintain the structure of the lymph node and separates it from surrounding tissues. Encapsulated lymph nodes are often associated with benign conditions, while non-encapsulated lymph nodes may indicate more aggressive processes, such as malignancy. The presence of an encapsulated lymph node is an important factor in evaluating lymphatic diseases and conditions.
