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Pericardial fluid Gram stain How the Test is Performed:
A sample called a smear from pericardial fluid is applied in a very thin layer to a microscope slide. The specimen is stained with a violet stain known as a gram stain and then examined under the microscope for the presence of bacteria. The color, number, and morphologic appearance of the cells help make it possible to identify the organism.
How to Prepare:
Food and fluid will probably be restricted for several hours before the test. A chest X-ray or ultrasound may precede the test to identify the area of fluid collection.
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:
How it Feels:
In some people, a cardiac monitor may be placed prior to the test to monitor for heart disturbances. patches called electrodes will be placed on the chest similar to an ECG . A chest X-ray or ultrasound may precede the test. The skin of the chest will be cleansed with antibacterial soap. A trained physician, often a cardiologist, will obtain the sample. A small needle is inserted into the chest between the ribs into the pericardium, the thin sac that surrounds the heart, and a small amount of fluid is withdrawn. There will be a sensation of pressure and some pain as the needle is inserted into the chest. An ECG and chest X-ray may also follow the procedure.
Risks:
There is a risk of puncturing the heart or the lung with this procedure. Introducing infection into the area is another rare, but potential risk.
Why this Test is Performed:
The test is performed when an infection of the heart is suspected or when a pericardial effusion is present.
Normal Values:
The absence of organisms in the gram stain is normal.
Abnormal Results:
An infection of the pericardium or heart may be present. A specific organism may be identified by further testing.
Cost:
The estimated cost is $32 for laboratory preparation of the specimen. There will be additional charges for the procedure to obtain the fluid.
Special Considerations:
Other tests may be performed on the pericardial fluid sample.
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