Definition of Bronchoscopic culture:

Bronchoscopic culture is a laboratory exam to check a piece of tissue from the lungs for infection-causing organisms.

How the test is performed:

A sample of lung tissue is needed. For information on how that sample is obtained, see: Bronchoscopy

The sample is sent to a laboratory, and placed in a special dish (culture media) that allows bacteria or viruses to grow. The sample is placed under a microscope and examined daily for the presence of bacteria or other infection-causing organisms. Treatment is based on the results of the culture.

How to prepare for the test:

This article discusses the culture test. For information on preparing for the procedure to take the tissue sample, see: Bronchoscopy

How the test will feel:

See: Bronchoscopy

Why the test is performed:

A bronchoscopic culture is done to find infection in the lung that cannot be accurately detected by a sputum culture. The procedure may find evidence of infection, such as:

• Abnormal secretions
• Abscesses
• Inflammation

A bronchoscopy may also be performed for respiratory conditions other than infection, such as when cancer is suspected.

Normal Values:

No organisms are seen on the culture.

What abnormal results mean:

Abnormal culture results usually indicate a respiratory infection. The infection may be caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi. The results of the culture will help determine the best treatment.

What the risks are:

There are no risks involved with the laboratory culture. For risks involved with the bronchoscopy procedure, see: Bronchoscopy