Small intestinal aspirate and culture

How the test is performed:

The specimen is obtained by EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy), a flexible scope that is passed through the digestive tract to the small intestine for the purpose of viewing the organs and obtaining specimens. A small amount of fluid present in the small intestine can be withdrawn through the scope. The fluid is placed in culture media in the laboratory and observed for growth of organisms.

How to prepare for the test:

The preparation is the same as for an EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy).

How the test will feel:

The test will feel the same as for an EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy).

Why the test is performed:

The test is performed to diagnose infections of the intestinal tract.

Normally many types of organisms are present in the small intestine that do not cause disease. The test may also be performed in certain situations when normal intestinal bacteria is not desirable, such as in transplantation or other conditions that cause immunosuppression.