OVERVIEW:
What is this test?
This laboratory test is performed on a sputum sample to determine the presence of abnormal or cancerous cells. This test can be helpful in the diagnosis of cancerous and non-cancerous conditions.
Why is this test performed?
This test is performed to diagnose the following conditions:
- Lung cancer
- Asthma
- Tuberculosis
- Pneumonia
- Asbestosis
- How to prepare for this test?
Before the test:
- Rinse your mouth with water
- Do not use toothpaste
- Clean and blow your nose.
- How much sputum is required for the sample?
30mL of sputum is required for this test. Less than 3mL is not acceptable.
- What will affect my test results?
The following reasons may affect your result:
- Less quantity of sample
- Saliva contamination
- Nasal secretions in sample
- 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.
Normal or Abnormal
- Interpretation of test results:
Normal: No malignant cells are found in the cytology. Sputum has some normal lung cells present.
Abnormal: Abnormal or malignant cells are found in cytology.
You should get tested if you are experiencing the following symptoms:
- Chronic cough
- Difficulty breathing
- Pain in the area of lungs.
You should also get tested if you had recent exposure to an active tuberculosis patient or if your doctor notices an abnormality in your chest X-ray or CT scan.
