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Encyclopedia -> Test -> R -> Routine sputum culture Alternate Names: Sputum culture How Performed: You are asked to cough deeply and spit any sputum in a sterile cup. The sputum is then taken to the laboratory. There, it is placed in a medium under conditions that allow the organisms to grow. How To Prepare: Increasing the amount of fluids the night before the test may help to get the sample.
How It Feels: You will need to cough. Sometimes the health care provider will tap on the chest to loosen the sputum. There may be a steam-like mist to inhale to help cough up the sample. Risks: There are no risks with this method of obtaining a sample. Why Performed: The cultures and tests are done on the sputum to help identify the bacteria that are causing an infection in the lungs or the airways (bronchi). Normal Values: No presence of disease-causing organisms in the sputum is normal.. Abnormal Results: The abnormal results will be reported as a positive culture. There is a disease-producing organism found that may help diagnose bronchitis, tuberculosis, a lung abscess, or pneumonia.
Cost: Special Considerations: Not applicable.
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