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Culture - joint fluid (aspirate) |
| Definition: |
| This is a laboratory test to isolate and identify organisms that cause infection, performed on a specimen of fluid obtained from fluid around a joint. See also synovial fluid analysis. |
| Alternative Names: |
| Joint fluid culture |
| How the test is performed: |
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A sample of joint aspirate or fluid is removed from the joint with a needle or in the operating room, then is placed on culture media in containers for the purpose of growing microorganisms (bacteria, fungus, or viruses) in the laboratory. The microbiologist in the laboratory inspects the cultures daily for growth. If microorganisms are detected, other tests may be initiated to identify the infectious agent and determine the sensitivity of the organisms to medications. Antibiotic therapy can then be determined based on these results. |
| How to prepare for the test: |
| A physician will withdraw fluid from a joint. Adults: There is no special preparation. 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: |
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The sample may be obtained in the health care provider's office or in the hospital. The skin over the joint is cleansed with antibacterial soap. A local anesthetic may be injected into the skin over the joint. The injection has a burning or stinging sensation. After the area has become numb, a larger needle is inserted into the joint, and fluid is withdrawn. There may be pressure in the joint. Some minor soreness may be present for several days. |
| Why the test is performed: |
| The test may be performed when there is unexplained pain and inflammation of a joint, or suspected infection in a joint. |
| Normal Values: |
| The presence of no organisms in the culture (i.e., a sterile culture) is normal. |
| What abnormal results mean: |
| Abnormal results indicate an infection in the joint. The infection may be bacterial, mycobacterial, or fungal. The causative organism and an effective medication to treat the organism are often indicated in the final results. Other associated conditions: |
| What the risks are: |
| The risks are introducing an infection or bleeding in the joint. |
| Special considerations: |
| Not applicable. |
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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