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Mycobacterial culture of liver biopsy
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| Definition: |
This is a test to determine the presence of tuberculosis or similar infection in the liver.
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| Alternative Names: |
Culture - mycobacterial of liver biopsy
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| How the test is performed: |
| A sample of tissue for culture is obtained by liver biopsy. The sample is placed in appropriate media in the laboratory and observed for growth of mycobacteria. Sometimes special stains, such as AFB, are done initially to help with the diagnosis. |
| How to prepare for the test: |
Your food and fluid are restricted for 4 to 8 hours before the test. You must sign an informed consent form giving permission for the liver biopsy. Blood tests for prothrombin time (PT) and platelet count are usually obtained before the procedure.
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 experiences, 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:
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| How the test will feel: |
| Local anesthetic is injected into the skin over the area to be biopsied. A needle is inserted through the skin between the lower ribs into the liver and tissue is withdrawn. After the biopsy, a small pillow or sand bag is placed over the biopsy site for several hours to prevent bleeding. |
| Why the test is performed: |
| The test is performed when an infection of the liver is suspected. |
| Normal Values: |
| No growth is normal. |
| What abnormal results mean: |
| Abnormal results indicate an infection of the liver from tuberculosis or similar bacteria. |
| Special considerations: |
| Not applicable. |
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Review Date: 1/13/2002
Reviewed By: Camille Kotton, M.D., Infectious Diseases Division, Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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