Culture of colonic tissue biopsy

Alternative names:

colonic tissue biopsy culture

How the test is performed:

A sample of colon tissue is obtained during a colonoscopy procedure using special instruments. The specimen is sent to the laboratory and placed in a culture media. The specimen is examined daily for the presence of microorganisms. When microorganisms are detected, they are classified. Additional tests to determine the susceptibility of the organism to antimicrobial therapy may be done.

How to prepare for the test:

The preparation for the culture is the same as for a colonoscopy. You will be on a clear liquid diet for 48 hours before the test. The large intestine must be thoroughly cleansed; therefore, you take a laxative in the evening before the test, and 3 to 4 hours before the test , you are given an enema. You must sign a consent form. You may be given a sedative to help you relax.

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 experience, 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:

You may feel the urge to defecate when the colonoscope is inserted.

Why the test is performed:

The culture is performed to detect and identify an infection in the colon that has not been diagnosed by other tests such as stool culture. A colonoscopy may also be performed for other reasons.