Pericardial Fluid is a liquid-like solution that surrounds the heart and the space (sac) surrounding the heart. The fluid reduces friction between the membranes of the heart and the surrounding sac as the heart beats.
The Pericardial Fluid for Bacterial Gram Stain Lab Test is a clinical test that checks for any bacteria or other abnormalities that are present in or associated with the pericardial fluid. The timely detection allows for early control of the bacteria that may cause mild or serious infections.
A sample of the Pericardial Fluid is usually taken for the test with a fine needle after the application of a numbing cream at the test site. The sample is then prepared and observed under a microscope in a laboratory. Please consult your doctor for further information.
- 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.
- Is the Pericardial Fluid collection procedure painful?
Most patients who have undergone this procedure consider it to be fairly tolerable in terms of pain and discomfort. However, local or general anesthesia (temporary sleep and insensitivity to pain) may be used.
- Can I get serious infections in the Pericardial Fluid?
While some bacterial infections are mild and reasonably treatable, others may be serious and require aggressive antibiotic therapy. Therefore, it is best that you discuss your condition with your doctor and follow all instructions and necessary precautions.
- Can I eat normally if I have a heart condition?
Eating healthy is necessary if you have a heart condition as foods with good nutritional value will strengthen your heart and help you live a longer, healthier life. While some patients with mild heart conditions do not need to make any drastic changes to their diet, others with severe heart diseases may have to restrict themselves to certain diets only. The recommended foods for heart patients include:
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Whole-grain foods
- Low to no cholesterol foods
- Lean meats
- Are Pericardial Fluid and Pericardial Effusion the same?
Pericardial fluid refers to the normal liquid present around the heart, whilst Pericardial Effusion is an excess of pericardial fluid that has accumulated around the heart. The latter may deteriorate your heart health and the overall quality of life, and thus, requires treatment.
- How long does it take to recover from Pericardial Effusion?
The recovery time is primarily dependent on the patient’s age and overall health. Some patients who undergo heart surgery recover within a month, while others take 2-3 months or longer. For effective and quick healing, please follow your doctor’s instructions.
INTERPRETATION OF THE RESULT:
- A negative gram stain is often reported as “no organism seen”.
- A positive gram stain results usually include a description of what was seen on the slide.
However, Gram stain results are usually considered preliminary, and results of a culture or other tests
such as antigen and antibody testing for particular types of bacteria are necessary to confirm a
diagnosis. Sometimes, susceptibility testing is necessary to determine which antibiotic will be most
effective in treating the 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 the effectiveness of given therapy
