Breast milk, right breast (for bacteria and fungi)
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We remind you that independent interpretation of the results is unacceptable, the information provided below is for reference purposes only.
This service is performed only for the first patient of the morning shift. Sample collection must be carried out exclusively at the beginning of the working day to ensure the most accurate test results.
Bacteriological examination of breast milk allows the detection and quantification of bacteria and fungi present in a breast milk sample.
The test helps diagnose possible breast infections, including mastitis, and determines the sensitivity of identified microorganisms to antimicrobial agents to support the selection of effective treatment.
The investigation is particularly important when symptoms of breast inflammation are present, such as pain, redness, swelling, breast firmness, increased body temperature, as well as changes in the health status of the mother or baby.
Indications
The test is recommended in cases of:
- suspected bacterial or fungal mastitis;
- breast pain, redness, swelling, or firmness;
- increased body temperature in a breastfeeding woman;
- unusual nipple or breast discharge;
- recurrent inflammatory processes of the breast;
- lack of improvement after prescribed treatment;
- suspected infection in the baby associated with breastfeeding.
Test method
The test is performed using bacteriological culture of breast milk on nutrient media.
The method allows the identification of pathogenic and conditionally pathogenic microorganisms (bacteria and fungi), determination of their quantity, and, if necessary, evaluation of their sensitivity to antimicrobial agents.
Procedure
The test uses a breast milk sample collected from the left breast.
Before sample collection, the following rules must be followed:
- wash hands thoroughly;
- perform breast hygiene;
- discard the first few drops of milk before collection;
- collect the milk into a sterile container.
After collection, the sample is sent to the laboratory, where bacteriological culture, microorganism identification, and, if necessary, antimicrobial sensitivity testing are performed.
Sources:
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-017-13270-x
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6495746/
https://www.nature.com/articles/s12276-020-0470-5
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9110848/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0163445320300633
IMPORTANT!
It is crucial to remember that the information provided in this section is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. If you experience any pain or worsening of symptoms, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnostic tests and appropriate treatment. Only a qualified specialist can make an accurate diagnosis and determine the appropriate course of action. To ensure the most accurate and consistent evaluation of test results, it is recommended to have them performed at the same laboratory. This is because different laboratories may use varying methods and units of measurement for similar tests.
Preparation:
- Self-initiated treatment with antibiotics or antifungal medications is not recommended before testing unless prescribed by a physician.
- Only a sterile container should be used for sample collection.
- Hands must be washed thoroughly and breast hygiene performed before collection.
- The use of antiseptics immediately before sample collection is not recommended unless advised by a healthcare professional.
- Inform the physician about current medications and previous treatments.
Important: the test result must be interpreted by a physician considering the mother’s clinical symptoms and the baby’s condition, as the detection of certain microorganisms in breast milk does not always indicate an active infection and requires comprehensive evaluation.
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5 days Ordering this service voids the discount*
Ordering this service voids the discount*
