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Culture - joint fluid

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Joint aspiration
Joint aspiration

Alternative Names    Return to top

Joint fluid culture

Definition    Return to top

Joint fluid culture is a laboratory test to detect infection-causing organisms in a sample of fluid surrounding a joint.

How the Test is Performed    Return to top

A sample of joint fluid is needed. This may be done in a doctor's office using a needle, or during an operating room procedure. For more information on this procedure, see joint fluid aspiration.

The fluid 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.

If such microorganisms are detected, other tests may be done to further identify the infection-causing substance and determine the best treatment.

How to Prepare for the Test    Return to top

There is no special preparation needed for the lab culture. For information on preparing for the removal of joint fluid, see joint fluid aspiration.

How the Test Will Feel    Return to top

The joint fluid culture is done in a laboratory and does not involve the patient.

For information on how the procedure to remove joint fluid feels, see joint fluid aspiration.

Why the Test is Performed    Return to top

Your doctor may order this test if you have unexplained pain and inflammation of a joint or a suspected joint infection.

Normal Results    Return to top

The test result is considered normal if no organisms (bacteria, fungi, viruses) grow in the laboratory 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    Return to top

Abnormal results are a sign of infection in the joint. Infections may include:

Risks    Return to top

There are no risks to the patient associated with a lab culture. For risks related to the removal of joint fluid, see joint fluid aspiration.

Update Date: 12/3/2007

Updated by: D. Scott Smith, M.D., MSc, DTM&H, Chief of Infectious Disease & Geographic Medicine, Kaiser Redwood City, CA & Adjunct Assistant Professor, Stanford University. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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