Gastric Aspirate is a technique of collecting the stomach contents; they may be tested to check for various infections and diseases, such as Tuberculosis in children (TB).
The Gastric Aspirate for Bacterial Culture and Staining (Aerobic) Gram Stain Lab Test is a clinical test that checks for any bacteria that are present in the stomach contents. The timely detection allows for early control of the bacteria that may cause mild or serious infections.
A sample of the stomach contents is usually taken for the test with a medical tool. Please consult your doctor for further information.
The patient undergoing the test should ideally sleep overnight for about six hours, and not eat or drink anything throughout the night till the test is performed.
- What are the risks associated with this test?
There are no significant risks associated with this test, except for mild pain and irritation during the procedure. However, if you experience any severe reactions, please contact your doctor immediately.
- Is the gastric aspiration procedure painful?
Most patients who have undergone this procedure consider it to be fairly tolerable in terms of pain and discomfort. However, the patient undergoing the test should ideally sleep overnight for about six hours, and not eat or drink anything throughout the night till the test is performed.
- Is TB (Tuberculosis) a serious infection?
While some bacterial infections are mild and reasonably treatable, others may be serious and require aggressive antibiotic therapy. Tb is a potentially fatal bacterial infection that requires immediate medical attention and aggressive antibiotic therapy. Therefore, it is best that you discuss your condition with your doctor and follow all instructions and necessary precautions.
- How can a gastric aspirate detect TB?
In children with suspected TB, the fluid released by the lungs is carried up to the mouth during sleep. During the night, this fluid, containing the TB bacteria, may be swallowed and taken in the stomach, and thus, detected in the gastric aspiration.
- How long does it take to recover from TB?
The recovery time is primarily dependent on the patient’s age and overall health. However, it takes at least six months for the bacteria to significantly decrease in number, and it may take 18 months or longer for you to completely recover. For effective and quick healing, please follow your doctor’s instructions.
The results may be positive or negative, depending on the type of bacteria present.
Positive: Meaning that you have an infection and require treatment.
Negative: Meaning you do not have an infection.
Some bacterial infections are mild, whilst others are serious and can have dire consequences. Getting tested is essential for the following reasons:
- Helps you and your doctor diagnose various infections and predict the outcomes
- Regular check-up
- Diagnose conditions before they progress and prove to be fatal
- Plan treatment and evaluate effectiveness of given therapy
