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Alternative names Return to top
Sputum cultureDefinition Return to top
Sputum is a secretion that is produced in the lungs and the bronchi (tubes that carry the air to the lung). This mucus-like secretion may become infected, bloodstained, or contain abnormal cells that may lead to a diagnosis. Sputum is what comes up with deep coughing.How the test is performed Return to top
You are asked to cough deeply and spit any sputum in a sterile cup. The sputum is then taken to the laboratory. There, it is placed in a medium under conditions that allow the organisms to grow.How to prepare for the test Return to top
Increasing the amount of fluids the night before the test may help to get the sample.How the test will feel Return to top
You will need to cough. Sometimes the health care provider will tap on the chest to loosen the sputum. There may be a steam-like mist to inhale to help cough up the sample.Why the test is performed Return to top
The cultures and tests are done on the sputum to help identify the bacteria that are causing an infection in the lungs or the airways (bronchi).Normal Values Return to top
No presence of disease-causing organisms in the sputum is normal.What abnormal results mean Return to top
The abnormal results will be reported as a positive culture. That means that there is a disease-producing organism found that may help diagnose bronchitis, tuberculosis, a lung abscess, or pneumonia.What the risks are Return to top
There are no risks with this method of obtaining a sample.Special considerations Return to top
Sometimes a Gram stain or AFB stain of the sputum done at the same time can help make the diagnosis. Update Date: 1/19/2004 Updated by: Daniel Levy, M.D., Ph.D., Infectious Diseases, Greater Baltimore Medical Center, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |