Bone marrow culture

This test detects and isolates bacteria from a culture of bone marrow cells. This test is used when infection caused by certain microorganisms is suspected in patients with a weakened immune system. This test may also be used in patients with known HIV or AIDS, who are suspected to have another infection.

Laboratory tests may be done for many reasons. Tests are performed for routine health screenings or if a disease or toxicity is suspected. Lab tests may be used to determine if a medical condition is improving or worsening. Lab tests may also be used to measure the success or failure of a medication or treatment plan. Lab tests may be ordered for professional or legal reasons. You may need this test if you have:

• HIV infection with secondary clinical infectious disease

Bone marrow:

A bone marrow biopsy is a procedure that requires written consent. Review the consent form with the healthcare worker and ask any questions that you have before signing the consent form.

Tell the healthcare worker if you have a medical condition or are using a medication or supplement that causes excessive bleeding. You should also report if you have a history of allergic or other reactions to local anesthetics. Inform the healthcare worker of any past or present bone diseases. You may need to have other tests done before a bone marrow biopsy.

To prepare for a bone marrow biopsy, you may be offered a mild sedative prior to the procedure to help you relax. To decrease pain, you will also receive a topical or local anesthetic injection at the biopsy site.

Venous blood:

Before having blood collected, tell the person drawing your blood if you are allergic to latex. Tell the healthcare worker if you have a medical condition or are using a medication or supplement that causes excessive bleeding. Also tell the healthcare worker if you have felt nauseated, lightheaded, or have fainted while having blood drawn in the past.

A sample of bone marrow and venous blood will be collected for this test.

Bone marrow:

Bone marrow is the tissue inside certain bones where new blood cells are made. A bone marrow sample is collected by biopsy. Local anesthesia may be used for a bone marrow biopsy. Your skin will be shaved and cleaned, and a sterile area will be prepared for the procedure. A needle will be inserted through the skin and into the bone using a twisting motion. A sample of marrow will be removed with a syringe, and another needle will be used to remove a piece of tissue. When the samples are collected, the needle will be removed.

Venous blood:

When a blood sample from a vein is needed, a vein in your arm is usually selected. A tourniquet (large rubber strap) may be secured above the vein. The skin over the vein will be cleaned, and a needle will be inserted. You will be asked to hold very still while your blood is collected. Blood will be collected into one or more tubes, and the tourniquet will be removed. When enough blood has been collected, the healthcare worker will take the needle out.

The amount of discomfort you feel will depend on many factors, including your sensitivity to pain. Communicate how you are feeling with the person doing the procedure. Inform the person doing the procedure if you feel that you cannot continue with the procedure.

Bone marrow:

Before a bone marrow biopsy, you may receive medication to help you relax. When the numbing medicine is injected, you may feel mild discomfort or stinging. The local anesthetic is used to minimize pain, but as the procedure needle is inserted, you may feel some pressure and discomfort. You may feel brief pain as the bone marrow is removed. You may feel discomfort at the procedure site for several days.

Venous blood:

During a blood draw, you may feel mild discomfort at the location where the blood sample is being collected.

Bone marrow:

After the sample of bone marrow is collected, pressure may be applied and a bandage will be placed over the biopsy site. You will be given instructions for when to remove the bandage, and the signs and symptoms of infection to watch for. Contact your healthcare worker if you experience a fever or increased pain, and if you see increasing redness, swelling, or pus at the procedure site.

Venous blood:

After a blood sample is collected from your vein, a bandage, cotton ball, or gauze may be placed on the area where the needle was inserted. You may be asked to apply pressure to the area. Avoid strenuous exercise immediately after your blood draw. Contact your healthcare worker if you feel pain or see redness, swelling, or discharge from the puncture site.

You have the right to help plan your care. To help with this plan, you must learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. You can then discuss treatment options with your caregivers. Work with them to decide what care may be used to treat you. You always have the right to refuse treatment.