Sputum Culture

Synonyms

Sputum Culture,

Purpose

A sputum culture is a test that detects respiratory infections such as tuberculosis, pneumonia, and bronchitis. It is also used to identify pathogens that might cause chronic conditions such as tuberculosis.

When you exhibit symptoms of TB, a blood culture can be performed alongside the culture to help detect if the TB has spread to the bloodstream.

Moreover, in rare cases of disseminated TB, an ear infection caused by Mycobacterium TB can occur. Such an infection is characterized by hearing loss, pain in the ear, discharge, fever, and swelling around the ear.

When this happens, the doctor can perform an ear swab alongside the culture to check if the infection has spread by confirming the presence of mycobacteria in your lungs and ears.

Combining these tests gives the doctor a comprehensive diagnosis, which helps tailor an effective treatment plan.

Patient Preparation

The patient must remove dentures”,” rinse mouth”,” and gargle with water.

Samples

Collect 5 – 10 ml of Expectorated sputum in a sterile screw-cap container. Only a specimen brought forth by 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

If your sputum culture tests come positive, it indicates that you have an infection in your lungs or the general respiratory system.

These infections can be TB, pneumonia, or bronchitis. A sputum culture helps to determine the specific microorganism responsible for the infections, allowing your doctor to apply the appropriate treatment.

In addition, the culture is also used to identify other pathogens, such as atypical bacteria or fungi, that may cause severe lung infections.

The culture also helps in the diagnosis of Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (LRTLs) especially in children. For further reading on Sputum Culture, you can visit this study.