Routine sputum culture - Overview

Alternative Names

Sputum culture

Definition of Routine sputum culture:

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:

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:

Drinking a lot of water and other fluids the night before the test may help to get the sample.

How the test will feel:

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:

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

Sputum test

Reviewed last on: 10/15/2009
Daniel Levy, MD, Infectious Disease, Maryland Family Care, Lutherville, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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