The Cystic Fluid for BACTERIAL Culture & Sensitivity (Aerobic) with Gram Stain Lab Test is a medical diagnostic test done on a cystic fluid sample. It is performed to determine the presence of certain bacteria, and sometimes, fungi.
It generally gives quick and accurate results which help the doctor make an accurate diagnosis and plan appropriate treatment.
Some infections are caused by Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria; these bacteria stain purple or pink, respectively, and can be viewed under a microscope.
A sample of cystic fluid (fluid accumulated in infected cysts) is taken, prepared, and observed under a microscope. The gram stain test helps determine the presence of bacteria, and their type and shape.
- What are the risks associated with this test?
There are no significant risks associated with this test, except for mild redness, pain, and irritation at the injection site. However, if you experience any severe reactions, please contact your doctor immediately.
- Why do fluid-filled cysts form?
The accumulation of fluid can occur due to a wide variety of reasons; it may form due to an injury, trauma, bacterial infection, burns, etc. While some cysts heal on their own, other require medical or surgical intervention.
- What if fluid-filled cysts are left untreated?
If left untreated, some infected cysts may become larger and promote the spread of bacteria into the surrounding tissues. The infection may gradually spread throughout the entire body.
- Does gram staining help make an accurate diagnosis?
Gram staining is e medical laboratory test; it is diagnostic and usually helps identify the infection-causing bacteria accurately. However, its use is only limited to bacteria that pick up the gram stain. All disease-causing bacteria do not show up with gram-staining.
- How long does a cyst take to heal?
An infected cyst usually does not heal on its own. It must be lanced or drained surgically by a medical professional. Failure to do so may lead to the bursting of the cyst, which allows the bacteria to spread to other tissues.
Certain infectious bacteria may or may not be present; this is determined by the gram stain lab test. Once the bacteria are identified, appropriate treatment can be initiated.
Some infections are mild, whilst others are serious and can have dire consequences. Getting tested is necessary for ruling out the causes of any abnormalities, which may be resolved within a few hours or, in some serious cases, last for years and require life-long treatment.
Getting tested is essential for the following reasons:
- Helps you and your doctor diagnose various allergies, infections, auto-immune disorders, cancers, metabolic disorders, anemia, etc.
- Regular check-up
- Diagnose conditions before they progress and prove to be fatal
- Plan treatment and evaluate the effectiveness of given therapy