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Routine sputum culture - MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia
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Routine sputum culture

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Sputum test
Sputum test

Alternative Names    Return to top

Sputum culture

Definition    Return to top

Routine sputum culture is a test of secretions from the lungs and bronchi (tubes that carry air to the lung) to look for bacteria that cause infection.

How the Test is Performed    Return to top

You will cough deeply and spit any sputum into a sterile cup. The sputum is then taken to the laboratory. There, it is placed in a special substance (medium) under conditions that allow the bacteria or fungi to grow.

How to Prepare for the Test    Return to top

Drinking a lot of water and other 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 deep sputum. There may be a steam-like mist to inhale to help you cough up the sample.

Why the Test is Performed    Return to top

The culture is done on the sputum to help identify the bacteria that are causing an infection in the lungs or airways (bronchi).

Normal Results    Return to top

No presence of disease-causing organisms in the sputum is normal.

What Abnormal Results Mean    Return to top

Abnormal results will be reported as a positive culture. That means that there is a disease-producing organism found that may help diagnose:

Other conditions under which the test may be performed:

Risks    Return to top

There are no risks with this method of obtaining a sample.

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: 11/12/2007

Updated by: Arnold L. Lentnek, M.D., Division of Infectious Disease, Kennestone Hospital, Marietta. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 1997-2009, A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.


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