Lymph node culture is a laboratory test performed on a lymph node to identify organisms (bacteria, viruses, and fungus) that cause infection.

A needle aspiration or biopsy of an enlarged lymph node (swollen glands) is obtained. The fluid is placed in culture media and observed for growth in the laboratory. Sometimes special stains are also done.

There is no special preparation necessary.

The site may be numbed with a local anesthetic before the node is aspirated. There may be some pain when the needle is inserted into the lymph node.

The test may be performed if the cause of swollen glands is not known, and infection is suspected.

No growth is normal.

Abnormal results indicate that infectious microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, or fungus are present.

Suspicion of atypical mycobacterial infection is an additional condition under which the test may be performed.

There is a risk of bleeding or infection.

Not applicable.