Lymph node culture is a laboratory test done on a sample from a lymph nodeto identify germs that cause infection.
Culture - lymph node
How the Test is Performed
A sample is needed froma lymph node. The sample may be takenusing a needle to draw fluid (aspiration) from the lymph node or during a
The sample is sent to a laboratory. There, it is placed in a special dish and watched to see if bacteria, fungi, or viruses grow. This process is called a culture. Sometimes, special stains are also used to identify specific cells or microorganisms before culture results are available.
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 TestYour health care provider will instruct you on how to prepare for the
How the Test will Feel
When local anesthetic is injected, you will feel a prick and a mild stinging sensation. The site will likely be sore for a few days after the test.
Why the Test is Performed
Your doctor may order this test if you have swollen glands and infection is suspected.
A normal result means there was no growth of microorganisms on the lab dish.
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.
- Infection (in rare cases, the wound may get infected and you may need to take antibiotics)
- Nerve injury if the biopsy is done on a lymph node close to nerves (the numbness usually goes away in a few months)
Armitage JO. Approach to the patient with lymphadenopathy and splenomegaly. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldmans Cecil Medicine. 24th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Elsevier Saunders; 2011:chap 171.
Hall GS, Woods GL. Medical bacteriology. In: McPherson RA, Pincus MR, eds. Henrys Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods. 22nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Elsevier Saunders; 2011:chap 57.
Pasternik MS, Swartz MN. Lymphadenitis and lymphangitis. In: Mandell GL, Bennett JE, Dolin R, eds. Mandell, Douglas, and Bennetts Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases. 7th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Elsevier Churchill Livingstone; 2009:chap 92.
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, Bethanne Black, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.