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Alternative names Return to top
Culture - nasopharyngeal; Swab for respiratory viruses; Swab for Staph carriageDefinition Return to top
Nasopharyngeal culture is a sample of nasopharyngeal secretions that is obtained and grown in a culture medium to detect the presence of organisms that can cause disease.How the test is performed Return to top
You will be asked to cough before the test begins and then tilt your head back. A sterile cotton-tipped swab is gently passed through the nostril and into the nasopharynx, the part of the pharynx that covers the roof of the mouth. The swab is quickly rotated and then removed.How to prepare for the test Return to top
Infants and children:How the test will feel Return to top
The patient may experience slight discomfort and may gag.Why the test is performed Return to top
The test identifies microorganisms that cause upper-respiratory tract symptoms. Nasopharyngeal cultures are useful in identifying respiratory viruses, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bordetella pertussis, and Neisseria meningitidis (types of bacteria). The culture may be used to test for appropriate antibiotic therapy.Normal Values Return to top
The presence of organisms commonly found in the nasopharynx is normal.What abnormal results mean Return to top
Pathogens (any virus, bacteria, or fungus that can cause disease) are found.What the risks are Return to top
There are no risks.Special considerations Return to top
Not applicable. Update Date: 1/26/2004 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 |