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Bile culture   

Overview | Risks | Results

Alternative names:

Culture - bile

Definition:

This is a test to detect infection in the biliary (liver secretion) tract.

How the Test is Performed

Through surgery or a procedure, a specimen of bile is obtained for examination in the laboratory. It is placed in culture media and observed for growth of microorganisms that are then identified. The specimen may be obtained during or after gallbladder surgery, or procedures from a tube to drain bile. A specimen may possibly be obtained during a radiology procedure to evaluate the gallbladder or biliary (liver secretion) system.

How to Prepare for the Test

The culture is usually tested in association with another procedure or surgery (see the specific procedure).

Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experiences, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:

• Infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
• Toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
• Preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
• Schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
• Adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How the Test will Feel

The method of sampling determines how the test will feel.

Why the Test is Performed

This test is performed to detect microorganisms within the biliary (liver secretion) system.

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