Sputum Test (excluding tuberculosis)
500 Kshs | Home Collection Available
Synonyms
None
Purpose
The Sputum Test (excluding tuberculosis) is a laboratory test used to detect the presence of pathogenic organisms such as bacteria, fungi, or viruses in a sputum sample—the mucus expelled from the lower airways (lungs and bronchi). It helps identify the specific cause of respiratory infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis, or other lower respiratory tract infections.
This test is critical in guiding appropriate antimicrobial treatment by identifying the causative organism and determining its antibiotic sensitivity. It plays a key role in reducing the misuse of antibiotics and improving patient recovery.
The test can be done alongside Sputum Culture and Sensitivity, Chest X-ray, Complete Blood Count (CBC), PCR or Rapid Antigen Tests, and Sputum AFB Test.
This test is commonly requested when a patient presents with symptoms like persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, and fever, and can help ensure the right treatment is administered promptly.
Patient Preparation
The patient must remove dentures, rinse the mouth, and gargle with water.
Samples
5 – 10 ml of expectorated sputum collected in a sterile screw-cap container. Only a specimen brought forth by a deep cough should be expectorated into the container. Refrigerate at 2°C to 8°C.
Reference Range
Negative/Normal.
Results Turnaround
2 – 5 days after receipt of samples
Diseases / Diagnostic indicators
A positive sputum culture indicates the presence of pathogenic organisms such as bacteria or fungi in the lower respiratory tract. This result typically confirms an active infection in the lungs or airways.
Some possible outcomes of the test include;
Positive Result:
Indicates an infection such as:
- Pneumonia
- Bronchitis
- Lung abscess
- Fungal respiratory infections
A positive result may also help guide antibiotic or antifungal treatment, especially when paired with a sensitivity test.
Negative Result:
Suggests there is no active bacterial or fungal infection in the sample tested, or that the pathogen present is not detectable through standard culture techniques. Viral causes may be suspected if symptoms persist.
This test helps healthcare providers determine whether the symptoms like cough with phlegm, fever, chest pain, or difficulty breathing are due to a bacterial, fungal, or other microbial infection, and allows them to tailor treatment accordingly.
For more on Sputum (excluding tuberculosis) Testing, read this study.