What is this test?
Sputum culture and sensitivity is a laboratory test performed on sputum (phlegm) to detect and identify the bacteria causing respiratory tract and lung infections. Typically, sputum consists of harmless bacteria but this test detects the pathogenic bacteria.
Why is this test performed?
This test is performed:
- To identify the cause of bacterial pneumonia
- To identify the cause of lower respiratory infections
- To determine the progress of illness
- To determine the efficacy of treatment.
- How to prepare for this test?
Your doctor may ask you to avoid food for a couple of hours before the test and to rinse your mouth frequently before the test.
- What is sputum?
Sputum is a thick mucus and saliva produced by the respiratory tract in reaction to an infection. It should not be confused with saliva.
- What happens if I can’t cough up enough sputum for the sample?
Other methods of collecting sample include:
- Inducing sputum by inhaling saline aerosol
- With the help of a bronchoscope.
- Are there any risks of bronchoscopy?
You don’t necessarily need bronchoscopy. If you have undergone bronchoscopy, your throat may feel sore and hoarse for some time.
- What are the symptoms of a bacterial infection of lungs?
Some of the symptoms include:
- Cough
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Chest pain
- Muscle ache
Positive or negative
- Interpretation of test results:
Positive: Pathogenic organism detected and identified on culture.
Negative: No growth on culture in 24-48 hours.